Parkinson's Disease

Living with Parkinson's Disease (PD) presents unique challenges, affecting movement, balance, speech, and overall daily function. While there is currently no cure, physical and occupational therapy play a crucial and empowering role in managing symptoms, maintaining independence, slowing disease progression, and significantly enhancing the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson's. At Precision Rehab, Occupational, Physical & Hand Therapy, P.L.L.C., we offer specialized, evidence-based rehabilitation programs tailored to the specific needs of those living with PD.

Understanding Parkinson's Disease and Its Impact

Parkinson's Disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement. It results from the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in a specific area of the brain. The hallmark symptoms of PD include:

• Tremor: Often starting in a limb, especially at rest.
• Bradykinesia: Slowness of movement, making simple tasks difficult and time-consuming.
• Rigidity: Stiffness of the limbs and trunk.
• Postural Instability: Impaired balance and coordination, leading to increased risk of falls.
• Gait Disturbances: Shuffling steps, reduced arm swing, or freezing of gait.

Beyond these motor symptoms, individuals with PD may also experience fatigue, speech changes (dysarthria), swallowing difficulties (dysphagia), and cognitive changes. Physical therapy is vital for addressing these challenges proactively.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Parkinson's Rehabilitation

At Precision Rehab, Occupational, Physical & Hand Therapy, P.L.L.C., our therapists have specialized training in neurological rehabilitation, including specific programs for Parkinson's Disease. We conduct a thorough initial evaluation to understand your unique symptoms, challenges, and personal goals. Based on this, we develop a personalized, progressive treatment plan focused on improving your mobility, balance, strength, and independence.

Key Components of Our Parkinson's Disease Rehabilitation Programs:

BIG and LOUD Programs (LSVT BIG and LSVT LOUD)

Our therapists are often certified in specialized programs like LSVT BIG. This intensive, evidence-based protocol focuses on retraining the brain to recognize and produce larger, more functional movements (BIG) and louder, clearer speech (LOUD). It helps combat the "smallness" of movement often associated with PD.

Gait and Balance Training

• Improving step length, arm swing, and overall walking speed and rhythm.
• Addressing freezing of gait through specific cueing strategies.
• Challenging balance with progressive exercises to reduce fall risk.
• Training on navigating obstacles, uneven surfaces, and transitions.
• Utilizing assistive devices (if needed) with proper training for safety.

Strength and Flexibility Exercises

• Targeted exercises to combat rigidity and improve range of motion in the limbs and trunk.
• Building muscle strength and endurance to improve functional abilities and reduce fatigue.
• Stretching to maintain flexibility and prevent contractures.

Motor Control and Coordination Training

• Exercises designed to improve fine motor skills, dexterity, and coordination for daily tasks.
• Practicing rotational movements of the trunk to improve gait and posture.
• Dual-task training to improve ability to perform movements while thinking or talking.

Posture and Trunk Mobility

• Exercises and manual techniques to combat stooped posture and improve spinal flexibility.
• Strengthening postural muscles to promote a more upright alignment.