Exercise as a neuroprotective mechanism in Parkinson's disease: future treatment potential?

This review describes the effect of exercise on Parkinson's disease. Experimental studies have shown that exercise plays an important role in prevention of Parkinson's disease by increasing serum calcium level leading to rise in dopamine concentration. Furthermore, exercise inhibits the process of inflammation by activating anti-inflammatory molecules and therefore impedes dopamine-containing neuronal cell degeneration. The purpose of this article is to raise awareness of the importance of exercise for Parkinson's disease patients by discussing what is understood about the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease and exploring how exercise can be useful in restoring lost functions and slowing the progression of disease.