Parkinson's Disease & Physical Therapy

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disease characterized by the lack of dopamine uptake in the brain.  It has a variety of nonmotor and motor symptoms.  A fairly easy way to think of these symptoms is that they make things SLOW and SMALL.  Symptoms include (and there are more):

• Small Shuffling Steps
• Slow movements
• Rigid joints
• Small handwriting
• Small, slow, soft voice
• Slowed GI tract (lots of constipation)
• Resting tremor
• Stooped over, small posture
• Apathy & depression

How does Physical Therapy help Parkinson’s Disease?

The research for Parkinson’s shows that HIGH intensity, LARGE amplitude exercise improves Parkinson’s function & improves dopamine uptake in the brain.  Our Physical Therapists are expertly trained (LSVT, PWR!, Rock Steady Boxing).  Therapy includes a lot of balance and complex exercises.  It may look like getting in and out of bed or it might look like performing squats on foam with throwing a medicine ball.  Depending on your physical level our therapists are skilled at progressing and challenging you appropriately.

Can I do things at home to help Parkinson's?

Absolutely!  Any exercise is good exercise however to really help Parkinson’s you want to try and get your movements bigger and faster.  I like to suggest giving yourself a target like making yourself cycle a certain RPM on a bike or having a spouse who is setting the pace while walking.  You can look up some good exercises on LSVT or PWR for Parkinson’s.  Some people with Parkinson’s can push themselves really hard at home however a lot of people with Parkinson’s struggle to push themselves as hard as they need to.  That’s where therapy and local exercise programs come into play

What resources do we have for Parkinson’s in Reno, Carson City, Northern Nevada, etc?

Rock Steady Boxing of Northern Nevada has classes in Carson City and Reno

Parkinson’s support center of Northern Nevada has some great events, resources & support groups

Have questions or want to know more?  Contact us or schedule your appointment now!