University hosts dance class for people with Parkinson’s Disorder

The University of Leicester’s new student-led physio clinic will host a workshop for those living with Parkinson’s on Friday (11 April) as part of World Parkinson’s Day.

A ‘Dose of Dance’ will take place in the Jo Williams Physiotherapy Clinic, in the Maurice Shock Building, on University Road from 2-4pm.

The workshop is seated creative dance exercise to music, supporting muscle strength, co-ordination and cognitive skills and will be led by Helen Winn-Smith from Virtual Motion Dance in partnership with Weave Creative Productions and Parkinson’s UK.

Physiotherapy students currently on placement in the clinic will also support participants during the class.

Associate Professor Charlotte Carter-Lang, Head of the Jo Williams Clinic and Practice Education Lead for the School of Healthcare, said: “We’re delighted to be hosting this class again on World Parkinson’s Day. Not only does it support activity and help improve muscle strength and balance, but it’s also a great social activity. On a personal note my dad has Parkinson’s and I have seen first-hand the benefit these types of classes can have for patients. 

“Our physiotherapy students will work one on one with those taking part to provide support and we know from previous classes that this has worked extremely well.”

The student-led physiotherapy clinic is open to the public, alongside staff and students at reduced rates, it offers quick and affordable access to physiotherapy services at just £10 per session. In recent months it has introduced Wednesday and Friday classes to those who want to improve strength, mobility and balance or return to sport after injury. 

Facilities at the clinic include treatment bays, a high spec gym area, treadmill with hoist if required, Watt bikes, a Motomed and more.

Helen Winn-Smith from Virtual Motion Dance Company is a choreographer, dance Practitioner developing dance programmes for education and health settings.

She was also Lead Artist in Leicestershire for the People Dancing National Programme 'Live Well & Dance Parkinsons' in affliation with English National Ballet and is commissioned by Arts and Heritage University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust to support patients in hospital. 

Helen said: “The class is designed to be a fun and creative movement session led by myself and supported by physiotherapy students in the clinic. It gives those taking part the opportunity to get moving in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where everyone supports one another.”

Anne Brandon, 85, from Groby, has been attending classes with Helen for several months at various locations.

She was diagnosed with Parkinson’s three years ago and said: “The classes are really relaxed and sociable and help to keep me mobile.”

Kevan Hall, 70, is also an attendee and has Parkinson’s. He said: “It really helps to keep me flexible and makes me think. They’re also really fun to join in and it gives me a chance to see people.”