APRIL is Parkinson’s awareness month.

Each year MDS (International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society) work to amplify awareness and understanding about Parkinson’s disease, which is a neurodegenerative disorder of the nervous system.

Sarah Wheeler will be presenting a talk to the Crediton Parkinson’s Support Group at the Boniface Centre on Wednesday, April 9 at 11am.

Sarah will be talking about the importance of posture and movement, and how these can have a significant impact on our general health.

Our skeleton and soft tissues greatly influence our breathing, gut health, circulation and nervous systems (and vice versa).

Proper function in these areas means the body has more resilience and is therefore less prone to pain, fatigue and other issues, such as insomnia and balance problems.

Parkinson’s can often present problems with cramping and stiffness in muscles which can greatly impact on posture and movement.

Sarah practiced as a registered Osteopath until 2012, when following the birth of her third child she decided to de-register and continue working independently with people who need help with pain, musculo-skeletal and mobility issues.

She works with a wide variety of patients from very young babies upwards, with very varied issues.

Alongside hands on treatment, Sarah explores other areas in lifestyle such as stress management, nutrition and exercise and is able to explore issues on an individualised basis.

She was diagnosed with Young-onset Parkinson's disease in 2021, just as she was turning 49.

Coping with this challenge has strengthened her passion in helping her patients with their own health issues, in finding manageable and sustainable ways to build better health.

She continues to practice from her clinic in Fordton and can be contacted on 01363 777994 or at: [email protected] .

Diane Silcock is the Crediton co-ordinator for Parkinson’s UK and can be contacted on 01363 775235 or at: [email protected].