Live Parkinson's - Live an Exceptional Life!

Live Parkinson's - Live an Exceptional Life!

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Live Parkinson's - Live an Exceptional Life! episodes

  • StrivePD & Guardian AI: How Rune Labs Is Bringing Precision Medicine to Parkinson's | Amy Gordon Franzen

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    Can your Apple Watch help you and your neurologist manage Parkinson's disease more precisely? In this episode of Live Parkinson's – Live an Exceptional Life, host Chris Kustanbauter sits down with Amy Gordon Franzen - CEO of Rune Labs to unpack StrivePD — the FDA-cleared app that's changing how people with Parkinson's track symptoms, share data with their care team, and take control of their disease.

    Amy brings a rare dual perspective: a background in oncology precision medicine and a personal connection to Parkinson's after a genetic test revealed she carries the LRRK2 mutation. In this conversation, she explains why Parkinson's treatment has lagged behind cancer care's precision-medicine model — and how patient-generated data is starting to close that gap.

    In this episode, you'll learn:

    • How StrivePD passively tracks tremor and dyskinesia minute-by-minute using the Apple Watch's FDA-cleared Movement Disorder API
    • What Guardian, StrivePD's built-in AI tool, can (and can't) tell you about your symptoms — and how it uses only peer-reviewed data
    • How monthly StrivePD reports help make the most of short neurologist appointments by giving doctors objective, longitudinal data
    • The role of exercise intensity data (including insights from the SPARX3 clinical trial) in slowing Parkinson's progression
    • How Rune Labs keeps your health data secure while still contributing to biopharma research and drug development
    • What Rune Labs' partnership with the Parkinson's Foundation and the PD GENEration study means for genetic testing and future treatments
    • How the app detects fall risk and freezing of gait, and flags high-risk zones before an incident happens
    • Why non-motor symptoms — mood, sleep, anxiety, and Parkinson's-related psychosis — are just as important to track as tremor
    • What's next for Rune Labs, including expansion into essential tremor, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease, and an Android version currently in development
    • How to get started with StrivePD for free, plus what the optional Guardian subscription includes

    Whether you're newly diagnosed, a longtime caregiver, or simply curious about how technology is reshaping neurological care, this episode offers a practical, hopeful look at what's possible when patients, data, and doctors work together.

    Resources mentioned:

    • StrivePD app (free on iOS, Android in development) — strivepd.com
    • Guardian AI subscription ($14.99/month, annual discount available)
    • Parkinson's Foundation PD GENEration study

    Subscribe for new episodes on exercise, nutrition, mindfulness, and community for people living with Parkinson's.

    👉 Visit liveparkinsons.com for resources, and more, and subscribe to our free monthly newsletter for the latest Parkinson's research, tools, and stories of resilience — delivered straight to your inbox.

    This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your neurologist or movement disorder specialist before making changes to your care plan.

    Support the show

    Disclaimer:  This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease.  Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor.  Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor.  The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.

    Disclosure:  I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you.  I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com.  I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link.  Thank you for supporting this podcast.

    To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.

    Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com

    Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

     

    51 min
  • Coffee, Caffeine & Parkinson's: What the Research Really Says

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    Does your morning coffee actually matter for Parkinson's disease? In this episode of Live Parkinson's – Live an Exceptional Life, we dig into decades of research on caffeine and Parkinson's — from what caffeine actually is and where it hides in your diet, to what it does inside your brain and body, to what clinical studies really show about its effect on Parkinson's risk and symptoms.

    You'll learn:

    • What caffeine is, how it works in your brain, and where it's commonly found
    • The research linking regular caffeine consumption to a lower risk of developing Parkinson's disease
    • What happened when researchers tested caffeine as an actual treatment for existing motor symptoms — including results from the CafePD clinical trial
    • Emerging research on caffeine and dyskinesia
    • Practical, doctor-approved action steps for thinking about caffeine as part of your daily routine

    Whether you're managing a Parkinson's diagnosis or simply curious about the science behind your daily cup, this episode breaks down real, peer-reviewed research in a way that's easy to understand — and genuinely fun to listen to.

    📩 Enjoyed this episode? Head to liveparkinsons.com and subscribe to our free monthly newsletter for more research-backed tips on living an exceptional life with Parkinson's — delivered straight to your inbox.

    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This episode is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Before making any changes to your diet, including your caffeine intake, please consult your healthcare professional first. They will be able to determine whether these changes are appropriate for your specific health needs.

    Ascherio A, et al. "Prospective study of caffeine consumption and risk of Parkinson's disease in men and women." Annals of Neurology, 2001. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11456310/

    Hong CT, Chan L, Bai CH. "The Effect of Caffeine on the Risk and Progression of Parkinson's Disease: A Meta-Analysis." Nutrients, 2020;12(6):1860. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7353179/

    "Association of Coffee Consumption and Prediagnostic Caffeine Metabolites With Incident Parkinson Disease in a Population-Based Cohort." Neurology, 2024. https://www.neurology.org/doi/10.1212/WNL.0000000000209201

    "Interaction between caffeine consumption & genetic susceptibility in Parkinson's disease: A systematic review." ScienceDirect. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1568163724001995

    Postuma RB, et al. "Caffeine for Motor Manifestations of Parkinson's Disease" (CafePD Trial). ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01190735. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT01190735

    "Caffeine Consumption and Risk of Dyskinesia in CALM-PD." https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3608707

    Support the show

    Disclaimer:  This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease.  Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor.  Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor.  The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.

    Disclosure:  I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you.  I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com.  I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link.  Thank you for supporting this podcast.

    To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.

    Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com

    Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

     

    13 min
  • Nordic Walking for Parkinson's: Better Posture, Stride Length, and Balance

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    Struggling with a shorter stride, forward posture, or feeling unsteady on your feet? Discover how Nordic Walking is transforming mobility for people living with Parkinson’s. In this episode of the Live Parkinson’s Podcast, we break down the clinical science behind Nordic walking, explore how fitness poles act as external sensory cues to improve gait and stability, and share step-by-step technique tips. Plus, learn why consulting a physical therapist or certified instructor experienced in Parkinson's is the best way to dial in your equipment, pole sizing, and form.

    Visit liveparkinsons.com and subscribe to the free monthly newsletter for more practical tools and resources to help you live well with Parkinson’s.

    Medical Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat Parkinson's disease. Always seek approval from your neurologist or Movement Disorder Specialist prior to initiating any new exercise program, including Nordic walking, to make sure it is appropriate for your specific health needs.

    Support the show

    Disclaimer:  This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease.  Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor.  Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor.  The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.

    Disclosure:  I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you.  I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com.  I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link.  Thank you for supporting this podcast.

    To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.

    Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com

    Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

     

    14 min
  • Sweat, Science, and Synergy: The Ultimate Parkinson’s Exercise Blueprint

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    Can exercise actually slow Parkinson's disease progression? In this episode, we break down the game-changing clinical findings from the landmark CYCLE-II trial and the newly updated joint guidelines from the Parkinson’s Foundation and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).

    Discover how to shift exercise from a simple lifestyle habit into a targeted, disease-modifying prescription. We explore the science of high-cadence cycling (> 75 RPMs), the four pillars of Parkinson's fitness (Aerobic, Strength, Flexibility, and BAM), and how to safely weave activities like indoor spin, boxing, swimming, dumbbell and machine workouts, daily stretching, and dual-tasking balance drills into your weekly routine.

    What You Will Learn in This Episode:

    • The CYCLE-II Trial Data: Objective details on participant numbers, study duration, and how high-intensity aerobic exercise impacts motor symptom progression.
    • The Four Pillars of Movement: Practical ways to structure your weekly routine using the latest ACSM and Parkinson's Foundation recommendations.
    • Advanced Actionable Strategies: How to use the "ON-Time" medication rule, master the Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale, and stack cognitive drills to supercharge neuroplasticity.

    Resources & Links Mentioned:

    • Read the study breakdown via the CYCLE-II Trial Overview on PubMed and the Movement Disorders Society Release.
    • Review the official guidelines via the Parkinson's Foundation Official Exercise Guidelines PDF.

    Take the Next Step with Live Parkinson’s:

    • 🌐 Visit my website: Explore more resources, episodes, and tools at liveparkinsons.com.
    • 📬 Join our free monthly newsletter: Get the latest research, tips, and community updates straight to your inbox by signing up on liveparkinsons.com.
    • ⚖️ Free Balance Resource: Grab your free copy of 9 Balance Exercises to Help Improve Balance in Parkinson's to add stability and agility to your daily routine!

    Medical Disclaimer:

    Disclaimer: The content provided on the Live Parkinson’s Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your physician, neurologist, or healthcare professional prior to initiating any new exercise program, diet, or lifestyle change to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your specific health needs. Always work with a certified fitness professional or licensed physical therapist specializing in Parkinson’s care to help design and execute your approved exercise plan safely.

    Support the show

    Disclaimer:  This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease.  Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor.  Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor.  The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.

    Disclosure:  I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you.  I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com.  I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link.  Thank you for supporting this podcast.

    To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.

    Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com

    Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

     

    19 min
  • Overcoming Fear of Falling: Mental and Physical Techniques to Regain Confidence in Your Mobility

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    Does a quiet hesitation keep you from stepping down a hallway, or does the fear of losing your balance make your world feel a little bit smaller? You are not alone. In this episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, I tackle one of the most common yet rarely discussed challenges of living with Parkinson’s disease: the fear of falling and the physical instability that feeds it.

    Discover clinical statistics on Parkinson's falls and learn actionable, science-backed strategies—from dual-task training and external cueing to highly challenging balance drills and cognitive reframing—designed to help you retrain your nervous system, quiet anxiety, and step forward with absolute confidence.

    What You Will Learn in This Episode:

    • The Reality of Parkinson's Falls: Key statistics from neurological research detailing annual fall rates and why they occur twice as often compared to age-matched adults.
    • The Psychology of Fear: Understanding the cycle of the "Fear of Falling (FOF)" and how avoidance impacts muscle deconditioning and mobility.
    • Evidence-Based Physical Techniques: How dual-task training, rhythm-based external cues, and progressive balance perturbation routines build physical resilience.
    • Mental Reframing Strategies: Practical mindfulness and cognitive tools to improve fall-related self-efficacy and reduce daily anxiety.
    • Home and Lifestyle Action Steps: Simple ways to audit your living space, partner with specialized physical therapists, and find community support.

    Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

    • Visit the official website: liveparkinsons.com
    • Subscribe to the Newsletter: Sign up for our free monthly newsletter on our website for continuous tips, expert insights, and community updates to help you live an exceptional life with Parkinson's.

    Important Medical Disclaimer

    The information provided in this podcast and show notes is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Parkinson's disease affects everyone differently. Always consult with a qualified, certified healthcare professional—such as your neurologist or a licensed physical therapist—before starting any new exercise program, balance routine, or physical activity. Your safety comes first, and a professional can help tailor these techniques safely to your individual needs.

    Support the show

    Disclaimer:  This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease.  Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor.  Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor.  The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.

    Disclosure:  I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you.  I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com.  I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link.  Thank you for supporting this podcast.

    To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.

    Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com

    Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

     

    17 min
  • Pain in Parkinson’s: The Hidden Sensory Symptoms No One Talks About (And How to Manage Them)

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    Pain is one of the most common — and most misunderstood — symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. In this episode, we break down the surprising truth about Parkinson’s pain and the under‑recognized sensory symptoms that affect millions but rarely get talked about.

    Listeners will learn why these symptoms happen and practical, science‑backed strategies to manage pain and improve daily quality of life.

    The five types of Parkinson’s pain identified in clinical research

    Why dopamine loss affects pain processing and sensory interpretation

    The surprising sensory symptoms many people experience, including:

    • Internal tremor sensations
    • Burning, tingling, and electric shock‑like pain
    • Temperature dysregulation
    • Restless legs and akathisia‑like sensations
    • Skin sensitivity and touch‑related pain

    How OFF periods can intensify pain and sensory symptoms

    10 actionable strategies to reduce pain and improve comfort, including:

    • Daily movement routines
    • Heat and cold therapy
    • Massage and myofascial release
    • Sleep optimization
    • Stress reduction
    • Posture and alignment work
    • CBT for pain modulation
    • Medication timing and OFF‑period management
    • Self‑advocacy tips for better clinical support

    Visit LiveParkinsons.com to explore free resources, exercise tools, and community support designed to help you live an exceptional life with Parkinson’s.

    👉 Subscribe to the free monthly newsletter for research updates, practical tips, and empowering stories delivered straight to your inbox.

    Medical Disclaimer

    This podcast is for Informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose or treat Parkinson's and Parkinson's symptoms. Before starting any new treatments, exercises, or strategies to manage pain or sensory symptoms, consult with your healthcare professional. They will develop a personalized plan that addresses your specific medical needs and health conditions.


    Support the show

    Disclaimer:  This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease.  Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor.  Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor.  The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.

    Disclosure:  I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you.  I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com.  I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link.  Thank you for supporting this podcast.

    To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.

    Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com

    Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

     

    21 min
  • Foods That Boost Dopamine: The Science‑Backed Nutrition Guide for Living Well with Parkinson’s

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    Supporting dopamine isn’t just about medication — it’s also about what you put on your plate. In this episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, we explore clinically researched foods that help nourish your brain, protect dopamine‑producing neurons, and improve daily function.

    You’ll learn how dopamine is made, which foods support each step of the process, and simple ways to add them to your daily routine so you can feel stronger, clearer, and more energized.

    This episode is packed with actionable nutrition strategies, expanded research insights, and easy meal ideas designed to help you live exceptionally every day.

    ⭐ In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

    • Tyrosine‑rich foods that help your brain build dopamine
    • B6, folate, and iron‑rich foods that convert tyrosine into dopamine
    • Antioxidant‑rich foods that protect dopamine neurons from oxidative stress
    • Omega‑3 fats that improve dopamine signaling and reduce inflammation
    • Gut‑friendly foods that support neurotransmitter production and medication absorption
    • Mood‑supporting foods that enhance cognitive clarity and motivation
    • Protein timing strategies that help levodopa work more effectively
    • Simple ways to add each food category into your daily meals.

    If you’re looking for a science‑backed, practical guide to eating in a way that supports dopamine function and enhances your quality of life, this episode is for you.

    Visit liveparkinsons.com

    Explore more resources, articles, and tools designed to help you live your best life with Parkinson’s.

    📨 Subscribe to the Free Monthly Newsletter

    Get research‑backed tips, exercise strategies, nutrition guidance, and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox every month.

    ⚠️ Disclaimer

    Before starting any new diet, supplement, or eating plan, please review it with your healthcare professional to ensure it is appropriate for your specific medical needs and health conditions.

    Support the show

    Disclaimer:  This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease.  Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor.  Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor.  The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.

    Disclosure:  I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you.  I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com.  I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link.  Thank you for supporting this podcast.

    To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.

    Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com

    Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

     

    20 min
  • Stress and Parkinson’s: How Stress Worsens Symptoms and What You Can Do About It

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    Stress doesn’t just feel overwhelming when you’re living with Parkinson’s — it has a measurable, biological impact on tremor, movement, cognition, and overall quality of life. In this episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, we break down the powerful connection between stress and Parkinson’s using major clinical studies, real‑world insights, and practical tools you can start using today.

    You’ll learn why stress makes symptoms worse, how it affects dopamine and neuroinflammation, and what research‑backed strategies can help you regain calm, confidence, and control.

    In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

    📚 The Science Behind Stress & Parkinson’s

    • How the HPA axis drains dopamine during stress
    • Why stress triggers microglial activation, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress
    • The largest PD stress study ever conducted:
      • “Stress and Mindfulness in Parkinson’s Disease – A Survey in 5000 Patients”
      • npj Parkinson’s Disease, 2021 — Van der Heide, Helmich & Bloem
    •  The 2024 Journal of Parkinson’s Disease paper suggesting stress reduction may be disease‑modifying

    Practical, Research‑Backed Stress Reduction Tools

    • Mindfulness & Meditation:
      • How to practice it even if you’ve never tried mindfulness before
      • Why it reduces anxiety, rumination, and improves mood
    • Box Breathing:
      • A simple, fast “circuit breaker” for stress used by athletes and first responders
    • High‑Intensity & Rhythmic Exercise:
      • What “high‑intensity” really means for Parkinson’s
    • Social Connection:
      • Why isolation increases stress and rumination
      • How to build meaningful, consistent social engagement even on tough days

    Explore More Free Resources

    Visit LiveParkinsons.com to subscribe to the free monthly newsletter, access free articles, and explore helpful tools and resources designed to support you in living your most exceptional life.

    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

    This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.
    Always consult your movement disorder specialist or healthcare professional before starting any new exercise routine or stress‑management program to ensure it is appropriate for your personal needs.


    Support the show

    Disclaimer:  This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease.  Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor.  Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor.  The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.

    Disclosure:  I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you.  I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com.  I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link.  Thank you for supporting this podcast.

    To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.

    Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com

    Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

     

    18 min
  • Cognitive Health & Parkinson’s: How to Protect Memory, Focus, and Build Brain Reserve (Backed by Clinical Research)

    Send us Fan Mail

    Maintaining strong cognitive health is one of the most important parts of living well with Parkinson’s. In this episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, we break down clinically researched strategies to protect memory, sharpen focus, and build long‑term brain reserve.

    You’ll learn what the science actually says about cognitive changes in Parkinson’s — and more importantly, what you can do every day to strengthen your brain.

    In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

    • What cognitive reserve is and why it’s one of the strongest predictors of long‑term brain resilience
    • How exercise boosts brain function, including studies showing improvements in executive function and neuroplasticity
    • The role of cognitive training and how daily mental challenges improve memory, processing speed, and attention
    • Why sleep is essential for memory consolidation and toxin removal in the brain
    • Nutrition strategies from the MIND Diet and Parkinson’s‑specific research to support cognitive performance
    • How social connection protects cognition, reduces decline, and strengthens emotional wellbeing
    • Stress‑reduction techniques proven to support memory and protect the hippocampus
    • A daily cognitive routine you can start using immediately.

    For more resources, research‑backed strategies, and monthly cognitive‑health tools, visit LiveParkinsons.com and subscribe to the free monthly newsletter. Stay informed, stay empowered, and keep living an exceptional life.

    Medical Disclaimer

    This podcast is for educational purposes only. Before starting any new exercise, nutrition plan, or lifestyle change, please consult your healthcare professional to ensure it meets your specific medical needs.

    Support the show

    Disclaimer:  This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease.  Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor.  Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor.  The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.

    Disclosure:  I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you.  I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com.  I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link.  Thank you for supporting this podcast.

    To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.

    Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com

    Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

     

    22 min
  • Proprioception & Parkinson’s: Train Your Inner GPS to Improve Balance and Prevent Falls

    Send us Fan Mail

    In this episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, we break down one of the most overlooked — and most powerful — tools for fall prevention in Parkinson’s: proprioception, your body’s “inner GPS.”

     While strength training is important, research shows that proprioceptive and sensory‑based training has a far greater impact on balance, stability, and real‑world fall reduction. We explore the science behind proprioception, why it becomes impaired in Parkinson’s, and how targeted training can help recalibrate the brain’s internal map of the body. 

    You’ll hear insights from key clinical studies, including:

    • Konczak et al., 2009 – Movement Disorders: Proprioceptive dysfunction as a core feature of Parkinson’s.
    • Schlenstedt et al., 2017 – Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy: Why strength training alone doesn’t improve balance.
    • Bekkers et al., 2020 – Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair: How sensorimotor training improves proprioception and reduces falls
    • Li et al., 2012 – The New England Journal of Medicine: Tai Chi’s powerful effect on postural stability.

    We also share simple, research‑backed proprioceptive exercises you can start using today to improve balance, confidence, and movement control. 

    ⚠️ Safety Disclosure

    The exercises discussed in this episode may not be appropriate for everyone.
    Always consult your healthcare professional before beginning any new exercise program to ensure it meets your specific health needs.
    If you try any of the balance or proprioceptive exercises mentioned, make sure someone is with you for support and safety. 

     For more research‑backed tools, exercise strategies, and monthly inspiration, visit LiveParkinsons.com and subscribe to the free monthly newsletter. Stay informed. Stay empowered. Live exceptionally. 

    Support the show

    Disclaimer:  This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease.  Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor.  Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor.  The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.

    Disclosure:  I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you.  I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com.  I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link.  Thank you for supporting this podcast.

    To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.

    Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com

    Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

     

    13 min

About Live Parkinson's - Live an Exceptional Life!

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Live Parkinson's - Live an Exceptional Life

Discover hope, resilience, and practical tools for living an exceptional life with Parkinson’s. Hosted by Chris Kustanbauter, this…

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