Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing Parkinson’s disease by improving mobility, balance, posture, and overall quality of life. Since PD is a progressive neurological disorder affecting movement, physiotherapy helps patients maintain independence and delay disability.
Key Roles of Physiotherapy in Parkinson’s Disease:
1. Improving Mobility & Gait (Walking Pattern)
• Techniques for Freezing of Gait (FOG): Use of rhythmic cues (auditory, visual, and tactile) to overcome gait freezing.
• Step Training: Encouraging larger steps and proper foot placement to reduce shuffling gait.
• Treadmill Training: Helps improve endurance and walking speed.
2. Enhancing Balance & Fall Prevention
• Postural Control Exercises: Training to maintain an upright posture and prevent falls.
• Strength & Coordination Training: Improves muscle function and reaction time.
• Dual Task Training: Practicing walking while performing another task to improve multitasking ability.
3. Managing Rigidity & Stiffness
• Stretching & Flexibility Exercises: Reduces muscle tightness and improves range of motion.
• Joint Mobilization Techniques: Helps reduce joint stiffness and maintain fluid movements.
4. Strengthening Muscles
• Resistance Training: Strengthens muscles to improve overall stability and mobility.
• Core Stability Exercises: Strengthens the abdominal and back muscles to support posture and movement.
5. Functional Training for Daily Activities
• Task-Specific Training: Practicing daily activities like standing from a chair, turning in bed, or walking.
• Occupational Therapy Collaboration: Helps in modifying home environments to improve safety and ease of movement.
6. Aerobic & Cardiovascular Fitness
• Cycling, Swimming, or Walking: Enhances endurance and overall cardiovascular health.
• Dance & Tai Chi: Improves coordination, rhythm, and social engagement.
An assessment with one of our Physiotherapists would be very beneficial. We can start on some easy strength and balance exercises for home practice.
