Rehabilitation for Parkinson’s Disease
Do you know someone with Parkinson’s Disease? Are they looking for a way to improve their quality of life and return to doing the things they enjoy most? At ProTailored Physical Therapy, our therapists have the tools to help those battling Parkinson’s Disease. What can you expect when getting physical or occupational therapy for Parkinson’s?
Physical Therapy
When working with our physical therapists, they will be able to create a comprehensive and uniquely created plan of care that is created just for you. Your PT will be able to work on things with you such as
- Walking
- Balance and stability
- Posture
- Strength
- Range of motion
- Pain
Beyond the care you receive in our clinic, your therapist will also provide you with a home exercise program that is made to fit just right for you. This exercise program will ensure that you are continuing to exercise and challenge your body the way it needs to be to achieve your goals. Research recommends that a person with PD gets 2.5 hours of exercise per week to help slow the progression of PD symptoms, and the home exercise program given to you by your therapist can help you reach that weekly goal.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapists can do many of the same things as physical therapists, such as increasing strength, range of motion, and lowering pain levels. However, whereas physical therapists specialize in improving gait, posture, balance, and managing lower extremity deficits, our occupational therapists specialize in upper body deficits. Furthermore, occupational therapists are uniquely trained to find ways to allow a person to participate in meaningful activities. Regarding PD, your occupational therapist can work with you on things such as:
- Adapting your environment
- Adapting the activities you wish to participate in
- Educating on adaptive equipment
Other Resources for Parkinson’s Management
One popular resource for those with Parkinson’s Disease is Rock Steady Boxing (RSB). RSB is an exercise-based program that is designed to improve a person’s agility, hand-eye coordination, balance, muscular endurance, and more. The goal of RSB is to provide an environment that facilitates rigorous physical activity to create new pathways in the brain that will lead to improvement in motor skills. RSB is a global program that continues to grow. By going to the Rock Steady Boxing website, you can find the program nearest to you.
Support Groups
Attending support groups is a great way to find new information regarding Parkinson’s Disease. Support groups provide an opportunity for people to share rehabilitation methods that have worked for them, coping mechanisms, and new relationships to be formed. If you r someone you know may benefit from a Parkinson’s support group, various organizations such as the Parkinson’s Foundation and American Parkinson Disease Association, as well as your local hospitals, can help you find a support group near you.
For more information regarding Parkinson’s Disease and how rehabilitation can play a part in improving quality of life in those with PD, call us at ProTailored Physical Therapy. Our therapists would love to work with you and find the best treatment plan to keep you participating in the things you love!