A NEW clinical trial looking at the health benefits and recommended "dosage" of dance exercise for people living with Parkinson's disease will be launched on World Parkinson's Day.
World-renowned physiotherapist and movement disorders expert Professor Meg Morris from La Trobe University will speak at at Parkinson's Victoria's InSearch research lecture in Geelong on April 11.
InSearch is a research series that gives people living with Parkinson’s and their families, carers and health professionals the chance to learn about current research and the science behind the disease.
Professor Morris, Professor of Healthscope and La Trobe's Clinical and Rehabilitation Practice, will also share her research into the benefits of dance as a therapy and provide information on her new trial focusing on the types and amount of dance exercise needed for beneficial impact.
New treatments
Another speaker at the InSearch research series lectures - also on in Wangaratta and Melbourne - will be acclaimed physiologist and neurobiologist, Associate Professor David Finkelstein.
Assoc Prof Finkelstein, head of the Parkinson’s Laboratory at The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health and Parkinson’s Victoria chair, will share his research into new compounds and treatments.
He will also discuss new approaches to stem cells as well as gut and eye problems in people with Parkinson’s.
Lecture admission is free to Parkinson’s Victoria members (plus one guest) or $20 per person for non-members.
The lectures will be held at:
- Rydges Geelong, Geelong, April 11, 1-3pm
- Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway, Wangaratta, April 16, 6-8pm
- The Florey Institute, Parkville, April 30, 2.15-4.30pm or 5.30-7.45pm.
Phone (03) 8809-0400 for further information.
- April 11 is World Parkinson's Day and throughout the month events are taking place all over the world to raise awareness and funds for research. Parkinson's Victoria urges people to hold a Party for Parkinson's - from morning tea to a dinner. Details: www.parkinsonsvic.org.au
