If you or a loved one has Parkinson’s Disease, you are well aware that this neurological disorder can be extremely limiting and debilitating. When dealing with this condition, an individual may be forced to find new ways to go about their daily routines. We at Total Care Physical Therapy understand how aggravating this can be. Our knowledgeable physical therapists understand how to help you maintain your current levels of function so that you can live more independently and comfortably.
Without proper care and attention, this disease can progress quickly. Contact Total Care Physical Therapy in Hillsborough, NJ today to learn more about how our physical therapy treatment plans can help with Parkinson’s disease symptoms.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive condition, meaning that symptoms tend to get worse over time. This disease affects the central nervous system and a person’s coordination abilities. According to Choose PT, “the exact cause of this disease is not yet known. Family history, aging, or exposure to certain environmental toxins may contribute to the onset of Parkinson’s.”
Typically, people with Parkinson’s will experience difficulty walking, and their movements tend to become slower as the disease worsens. Oftentimes, patients develop hand tremors and their muscles can become rigid, leading to loss of motion and poor posture. They may also have a tendency to fall backward, which is a symptom referred to as “retropulsion.” This is dangerous and can cause serious injuries and other health complications.
Since Parkinson’s Disease affects many areas of the brain, symptoms can vary in individuals and progression can be either mild, moderate, or aggressive. Other common symptoms include:
- Slurred speech
- Irregular facial expressions
- Loss of automatic movements
- Pain from muscle stiffness
- Lightheadedness and fatigue
- Bladder urgency and incontinence
- Moderate to severe tremors
If you have noticed any of these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to contact a professional as soon as possible for a thorough evaluation of your physical abilities. A physical therapist will be able to do a full assessment of your condition, and recommend the best course of action for management of your symptoms.
What is LSVT Big & Loud®?
One method of treatment that can help Parkinson’s patients to stay active and independent comes in the form of LSVT®.
This is a type of treatment that Total Care Physical Therapy offers that may be unfamiliar to you. LSVT® stands for “Lee Silverman Voice Treatment” and is divided into two branches– “Big” and “Loud.” These treatments are expanded from an existing software used to help with speech.
This treatment is based on the principle of neuroplasticity, which refers to the ability of the nervous system to change in response to signals – essentially, the brain’s capability of learning and changing.
In fact, scientific research done on the results of LSVT Big & Loud® has reported significant progress in several categories for people struggling with Parkinson’s Disease, including:
- Improved balance
- Increased ability to function independently
- Increased trunk rotation
- Faster walking, with bigger steps
- Improvements in activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, eating, and writing
- Vocal loudness
- Intonation
- Voice quality
- Articulation
- Facial expression
- Swallowing
At your appointment, an evaluation will be performed to test your physical and speech abilities. Eligibility for LSVT Big & Loud® treatments will be determined by one of our certified Hillsborough, NJ speech or physical therapists.
While there is no cure for Parkinson’s Disease currently, a tremendous amount can be done to improve one’s function and maintain mobility. In coordination with your physician, rehabilitation focuses on improving movement, safety, independence with activities, transfers, cognitive aptitude, speech, and swallowing.
Our dedicated physical and occupational therapists will travel to your home to provide you with the best care for your needs. For Parkinson’s Disease, it is recommended that you seek the help of both physical therapists and occupational therapists.
Contact Total Care Physical Therapy today!
If you have Parkinson’s disease, you need a team that is committed to your overall well-being and capable of providing you with the care and attention your condition requires.
Our ultimate goal at Total Care Physical Therapy is to help our patients have the best quality of life possible by managing their condition and pain symptoms. Our LSVT® treatments can assist you in regaining your independence and strength. Allow us to assist you in your fight against Parkinson’s Disease. Make an appointment with our Hillsborough, NJ clinic today!
