Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neuromotor disorder affecting the brain’s basal nuclei. If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, it can be difficult, frustrating, and confusing. With treatment programs tailored to each patient’s needs, physical therapy for neurological conditions gives patients with Parkinson’s disease hope for safer and more efficient mobility.
Parkinson’s disease hampers the ability to walk. Bradykinesia refers to patients’ slower movements. Furthermore, they develop resting or “pill-rolling” tremors in their hands. Muscles can become relatively rigid, resulting in motion loss and poor posture. Retropulsion is another dangerous symptom in which an individual falls backward with little to no ability to protect oneself.
Because everyone with Parkinson’s disease experiences it differently, it’s critical to get started on the right treatment plan for your specific issues. Call Total Care Physical Therapy in Hillsborough, NJ to schedule an evaluation to determine how our physical therapists can assist you.
What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease is defined by ChoosePT as:
“Parkinson’s disease is caused by a loss of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain.” Dopamine and other brain chemicals are normally balanced and are essential for controlling body movements, thought processes, decision making, moods, and other behaviors.”
The severity and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can vary greatly. Some people who have had the disease for 20 to 30 years experience a slower decline in mobility and cognition over a longer period of time. Others may experience difficulty with physical movements and thought processes within 5 to 10 years, depending on how quickly the disease progresses.
When an individual has Parkinson’s, gross motor movements are affected, such as walking, and small muscle groups can begin experiencing difficulty with facial expression, swallowing, and speech.
Physical therapists collaborate with other team members, such as occupational and speech therapists, to create a comprehensive treatment plan that maximizes the quality of life for Parkinson’s disease patients. Your team’s comprehensive therapy program will help you gain more independence in all aspects of your daily routine.
How can seeing a physical therapist help manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?
“A professional can guide you through the right moves to increase mobility, strength, and balance, and help you remain independent,” according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
They recommend including the following interventions in your personalized treatment plan:
- Amplitude training
- Reciprocal patterns
- Balance work
- Strength and flexibility exercises
- Strength training
Physical therapists work with patients to improve their range of motion, strength, stamina, transfers, posture, and movement in order to maximize function and independence. They also concentrate on upper-extremity movements, cognitive improvements, coordination with dressing and daily life activities, and any adaptive equipment that can help people live as independently as possible.
It is important to note that our rehabilitation professionals work as a team to help you achieve your objectives. Our primary goal is to assist you in maintaining and improving all levels of physical function so that you can reclaim your independence as fully as possible. Your physical therapist will collaborate with your other team members (occupational and speech therapists) to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for you.
As our understanding of Parkinson’s disease grows, so do our treatment options. Pharmaceutical management can help with dopamine function in the brain. Your physical therapist must be aware of the medications you are taking. Medication timing and optimal function go hand in hand.
Your success is dependent on you. We want to collaborate with you and provide you with the tools you need to manage your PD.
Contact Total Care Physical Therapy today to get started on improving your functionality and independence!
If you have Parkinson’s disease, please contact our clinic right away. We understand that managing this condition requires assistance; our skilled physical therapists are familiar with the therapeutic methods that will assist you.
Our physical therapists at our clinic are committed to assisting you in regaining your optimum levels of function so that you can live your life as independently as possible. Contact Total Care Physical Therapy in Hillsborough, NJ to schedule an evaluation to see how our physical therapists can assist you or a loved one with Parkinson’s disease.
