Parkinson’s Disease is a neurodegenerative disease, which means we do not, yet, have a cure. It is the second most common neurodegenerative disease following Alzheimer’s Disease. Parkinson’s Disease is expected to affect approximately 1.2 million people by the year 2030, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Parkinson’s Disease is usually characterized by a progression of symptoms such as:

  • Tremors at rest
  • Slow and small movements (called bradykinesia)
  • Walking and balance problems
  • Postural changes
  • Stiffness
  • Softer speech

These changes may impact how a person feels while performing daily activities and may begin to increase an individual’s risk of falling.

A diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease can often leave people feeling lost or helpless as they navigate these new changes. We recommend seeing a physical therapist as soon as you or a loved one are diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Although physical therapy cannot cure Parkinson’s Disease, it can help a person learn to compensate for the changes they begin to experience and can help identify other changes that may be a result of Parkinson’s Disease.

Physical therapists are trained to evaluate individuals with Parkinson’s Disease to determine what symptoms are present and create plans to combat those changes. Through a series of strength, balance, and walking tests, physical therapists can help establish a program that is fun and individualized for each person. Research shows that exercise may help:

  • Reduce the progression of the disease
  • Improve quality of life
  • Reduce risk of falls
  • Help people maintain their independence and mobility

At Sheltering Arms Institute, we encourage people with Parkinson’s Disease to have check-ins with their physical therapist on a customized basis to monitor changes in strength, balance, or mobility that may indicate the progression of the disease. This allows the therapist to identify potential problems or changes earlier and to screen for the need of occupational or speech therapy referrals.  By identifying changes sooner, we hope to reduce the risk of falls and maintain a person with Parkinson’s independence as long as possible.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, visit https://shelteringarmsinstitute.com/conditions-and-services/parkinsons-disease-therapy/ to schedule an appointment with Sheltering Arms Institute today for an evaluation!

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