Brain Health
Exercise and Brain Health
Exercise is one of the few interventions with benefit across almost every neurological condition treated in this practice — memory, Parkinson's disease, migraine, neuropathy, balance disorders and stroke prevention. It is discussed as part of the treatment plan.
General targets
- About 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity
- Strength training two days per week
- Balance work several days per week for anyone with falls or unsteadiness
- Breaking up long periods of sitting
- Starting below your capacity and progressing gradually
Condition-specific adjustments
- Parkinson's disease — large-amplitude movement, cycling, treadmill walking, boxing-style and dance programs, plus balance training
- Memory concerns — regular aerobic activity combined with social engagement
- Migraine — gradual introduction, since abrupt intense exertion can trigger attacks
- Neuropathy — footwear and foot inspection, with low-impact activity and balance work
- After stroke — supervised programs guided by rehabilitation recommendations
- Multiple sclerosis — pacing, cooling and attention to heat sensitivity
Safety first
Anyone with cardiac disease, significant balance impairment, uncontrolled blood pressure or recent injury should confirm an exercise plan with their physician before starting. In many cases physical therapy is the safest way to begin.
Frequently asked questions
- Does exercise improve memory?
- Regular physical activity is associated with better cognitive aging and improves sleep, mood and cardiovascular risk. It is not a treatment that reverses dementia.
- What if balance is already a problem?
- Start with supervised balance and strength work, often through physical therapy, rather than unsupervised activity that increases fall risk.
Care across Northwestern Illinois & Southern Wisconsin
Patients travel from McHenry County, the northwest Chicago suburbs, the Fox Valley and southern Wisconsin for this care. In-person visits take place in Crystal Lake and Woodstock, Illinois and Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Telehealth is available to patients located anywhere in Illinois or Wisconsin when clinically appropriate.
Need a Neurologist?
Choose the scheduling line for the state where you will be located for your appointment.
In-Person Neurology Visits
Available at three office locations:
Crystal Lake, Illinois
Woodstock, Illinois
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Telehealth Neurology Visits
Telehealth neurology appointments are available to patients located anywhere in Illinois or Wisconsin. You do not need to live near an office, but you must be physically located in Illinois or Wisconsin at the time of the appointment.
Learn about telehealth neurology →Call to schedule
Illinois appointments: 815-337-7100. Wisconsin appointments: 262-245-0535.
Choose your visit
Our office will confirm whether an in-person or telehealth visit is appropriate and provide the details.
Insurance and referrals
Insurance participation and referral requirements vary by plan. Our office will confirm what your plan requires before your visit.
If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention.