Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, often leading to reduced amplitude (smaller steps, softer voice), increased rigidity, balance issues, and a higher risk of falling. At Dosher Physical Therapy, we offer specialized Parkinson’s Disease Programs designed to counteract these symptoms, helping patients maximize their mobility and maintain independence for as long as possible.
Our therapists in the Upstate area are trained in evidence-based protocols that focus on recalibrating movement—teaching the brain and body to recognize and execute bigger, more effective movements in daily life.
What are Parkinson’s Disease Programs?
Our PD programs are a focused component of Neurological Rehabilitation. The fundamental goal is to use exercise as medicine, targeting the specific motor symptoms of Parkinson’s. Key therapeutic focuses include:
- Amplitude and Scale of Movement: Utilizing principles like those found in the LSVT BIG® program (Large Amplitude movements) to train the patient to move with larger, more forceful steps, arm swings, and trunk rotation. This helps overcome the tendency toward small, shuffling movements.
- Balance and Gait Improvement: Addressing the primary safety concerns of PD. This includes improving static and dynamic balance and training effective compensatory strategies to prevent falls, integrated from our Balance and Fall Prevention Programs.
- Flexibility and Posture: Combating the forward, flexed posture and rigidity often associated with PD, improving upright trunk extension and spinal mobility (Postural Correction and Fault Therapy).
- Managing Freezing of Gait: Utilizing external cues (auditory, visual, or sensory) to help overcome episodes where the patient suddenly “freezes” while walking.
The Importance of High-Intensity, High-Amplitude Training
Research consistently shows that individuals with PD benefit most from high-intensity, large-amplitude exercises. The brain, affected by PD, begins to perceive small movements as “normal.” Our therapy works to reset this perception, requiring patients to actively practice movements that feel too big, until they become the new, functional standard. This type of training improves neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to rewire itself.
Who Can Benefit from PD Programs?
Physical therapy is essential at all stages of Parkinson’s Disease, including individuals who are:
- Newly Diagnosed: Starting therapy early is critical for establishing a safe exercise baseline and slowing the progression of motor symptoms.
- Experiencing Balance or Gait Changes: Noticing shuffling, freezing of gait, reduced arm swing, or increased dizziness.
- At Risk of Falling: Those who have experienced a fall or have a severe fear of falling (Fall Prevention Programs).
- Dealing with Stiffness or Rigidity: Requiring Soft Tissue Mobilizations and stretching to maintain mobility and comfort.
- Post-DBS Surgery: Therapy is crucial after Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) to maximize the functional benefits of the device.
Key Treatment Components
Your customized PD program will include functional, empowering exercises designed to maximize movement capacity:
|
Component |
Focus Area |
Goal |
|
Big Movements |
Repeated, exaggerated movements (e.g., big steps, big arm swings, big trunk turns). |
Recalibrate movement size and speed to overcome bradykinesia and hypokinesia. |
|
Balance Training |
Multi-directional weight shifts, obstacle negotiation, and reaction training. |
Improve stability and the ability to prevent a fall when balance is challenged. |
|
Rhythmic Cues |
Using metronomes, music, or therapist counting during walking. |
Provide an external timing mechanism to bypass internal motor programming issues (helpful for freezing). |
|
Trunk Rotation |
Exercises that involve large, twisting motions of the spine. |
Combats trunk rigidity and improves general functional mobility (e.g., turning over in bed). |
Locations
Parkinson’s Disease Programs are available at all five of our Dosher Physical Therapy clinics:
- Anderson, SC
- Easley, SC
- Pickens, SC
- Powdersville (Piedmont), SC
- Clayton, GA
Additional Resources and Services
We integrate specialized therapies to enhance PD management:
- Vertigo and Vestibular Rehabilitation: Addressing dizziness or inner ear deficits that contribute to unsteadiness.
- Core Strength and Stability Programs: Strengthening the trunk is vital for better posture and balance control.
- Dry Needling: Used in select cases to address significant, localized muscle tightness or rigidity.
To schedule your Parkinson’s Disease evaluation and start an active plan to control your movement, please visit our Contact page or call your preferred clinic location.
