Physical therapy isn’t only for people who have been injured in a sporting accident or in a car accident. Did you know physical therapy is used to treat a variety of illnesses and ailments? Parkinson’s Disease is chief among them! Learn more about how physical therapy can play a key role in managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.
How Can Physical Therapy Help With Parkinson’s Disease?
While any physical therapy program should be discussed with the physician and/or neurologist for any patient with Parkinson’s Disease, studies have shown there can be some key benefits, including increasing mobility, strength, flexibility, and balance.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
The National Institute on Aging describes Parkinson’s Disease as “a brain disorder that causes unintended or uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. Symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen over time. As the disease progresses, people may have difficulty walking and talking. They may also have mental and behavioral changes, sleep problems, depression, memory difficulties, and fatigue.”
There is no evidence as to why, but many sources say this disease tends to affect more men than women, and some studies show it can be a hereditary disease.
The symptoms of Parkinson’s, according to the National Institute on Aging, are:
- Tremor in hands, arms, legs, jaw, or head
- Muscle stiffness, where muscle remains contracted for a long time
- Slowness of movement
- Impaired balance and coordination, sometimes leading to falls
Other symptoms may include:
- Depression and other emotional changes
- Difficulty swallowing, chewing, and speaking
- Skin problems
How Is Parkinson’s Disease Treated?
In addition to physical therapy, a variety of medications can be used to treat the symptoms, and in some cases, a surgery called Deep Brain Stimulation can be an option. According to the Mayo Clinic, “In deep brain stimulation (DBS), surgeons implant electrodes into a specific part of the brain. The electrodes are connected to a generator implanted in the chest near the collarbone. The generator sends electrical pulses to the brain and may reduce Parkinson’s disease symptoms.”
The Mayo Clinic continues, “Deep brain stimulation is most often offered to people with advanced Parkinson’s disease who have unstable responses to [the medication] levodopa. DBS can stabilize medicine fluctuations, reduce or halt involuntary movements called dyskinesia, reduce tremors, reduce rigidity, and improve movements.”
Physical Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease In and Around Irving
Do you or a loved one need physical therapy for Parkinson’s Disease? Call us at Physical Therapy NOW to set up your first appointment, so we can discuss a treatment plan that can help ease your symptoms. We’re here to help!
