PARKINSON'S DISEASE

Parkinson’s Disease a progressive, incurable, neurological disease that is caused by damages to the dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra. The substantia nigra is the portion of the brain in charge of movement. The damages cause a decreased production of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is needed to control movement and coordination.

Parkinson’s Disease is considered an incurable and progressive movement disorder, meaning it has no cure and will get worse over time. Research is continuously evolving and advancing, with the current emphasis on symptom management. Physical Therapy helps manage the symptoms of Parkinson's Disease, especially the loss of strength and skills.

It is important to remember that every person is affected differently by Parkinson’s Disease symptoms and severity. Symptoms include

Tremors
Postural instability leading to difficulty walking and balancing
Slowness of movement (Bradykinesia)
Stiffness of movement (Rigidity)
Cognitive Impairments

Did you know?

Four of our Physical Therapy clinicians are LSVT BIG Certified!

The LSVT BIG Certification program is additional training specifically designed for treatment of Parkinson’s Disease. This program is an intense, highly researched, base program designed to improve the movement patterns used by patient’s with Parkinson’s Disease. As Parkinson’s Disease progresses, movements get smaller and smaller which causes one to have difficulty moving about in their everyday life. The LSVT BIG Program focuses on increasing the size of movement which assists with completing daily tasks, balance, safety, improved walking and mobility.

We have 2 Physical Therapists and 2 Physical Therapy Assistants certified in the LSVT BIG Program! Our clinicians are well equipped experts here to help you re-learn how normal feeling movements should feel, improve your daily function, and increase your confidence!

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