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Published on January 30, 2024

Popular exercise program for those with Parkinson’s disease expands to Georgetown

A popular exercise program designed to help people with Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders has expanded to Georgetown.

Participant in a Power Thru Parkinson's class lifts weights.Power Thru Parkinson’s classes are now offered twice a week at the Tidelands Health Georgetown Family YMCA, 529 Browns Ferry Road in Georgetown.

The boxing-inspired class is tailored for people living with Parkinson’s disease or other movement disorders. Power Thru Parkinson’s classes also are offered at the Tidelands Health Family YMCA in Pawleys Island and the Claire Chapin Epps Family YMCA in Myrtle Beach.

Parkinson’s disease is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by a variety of symptoms such as muscle tremors, difficulty walking and slurred speech. Exercise can help slow progression of the disease, which makes Power Thru Parkinson’s a great way for people with the condition to help maintain their health and delay the onset of more severe symptoms.

“Exercise is important for everyone, but it’s particularly important for people with Parkinson’s disease,” said Tidelands Health neurologist Dr. Scott Callaghan, who offers care at Tidelands Health Neurosciences at Murrells Inlet. “Regular exercise can make a big difference in physical and cognitive function.”

Power Thru Parkinson’s is designed to reinforce the nerve-muscle connection that is crucial to combating the disease’s symptoms. The program focuses on functional training by having participants practice movements to accomplish everyday activities such as managing obstacles while walking.

“Regular exercise for people with Parkinson’s disease can make a tremendous difference in their quality of life,” said Laurie Tardif, class instructor at the Tidelands Health Georgetown Family YMCA. “Our Power Thru Parkinson’s class offers tailored exercises for all fitness levels in a supportive environment, where participants get moving and connect through their shared experiences. We encourage those living with Parkinson’s disease to sign up or come observe a class to see firsthand the type of exercises and camaraderie the class offers.”

Tidelands Health is the exclusive health system partner of the YMCA of Coastal Carolina.

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Tidelands Health, in collaboration with MUSC Health, is the region’s largest health care provider, serving the Carolinas at four hospitals and more than 70 outpatient locations. More than 2,500 employee, physician and volunteer partners work side by side with our communities to transform the health of our region – promoting wellness, preventing illness, encouraging recovery and restoring health.