Although Parkinson’s can limit your range of motion, there are many ways to ease the stress and burden of limited mobility. There are even strategies to help improve balance, develop and maintain strength and prevent falls. Physical therapy can help regardless of your progression with PD and greatly improves your quality of life. You don’t have to wait until an injury occurs, physical therapy can maximize your independence now.
*A physical therapist can help you:
- Design an individualized program to address your specific physical limitations.
- Learn stretches and exercises that can be done at home to improve range of motion, balance, posture, strength, flexibility, and endurance.
- Evaluate and treat mobility and walking problems as well as joint or muscle pain which interferes with the activities of daily living.
- Plan more efficient movements and compensatory techniques for daily living activities (e.g. bathing and dressing) to make these easier and less tiring to do.
- Learn to use appropriate walking aids.
Since PD is a chronic progressive illness, it’s important to regularly visit your physical therapist. Reoccurring visits at regular intervals, allows your therapist to adequately asses your movement symptoms and help you maintain independence as your PD progresses.
Care partner Tip: Physical therapy can also benefit you! Bending, lifting and helping a loved one with daily activities can take a toll on your body. It’s important for you to know and use healthy body mechanics to help prevent injury. The end goal is to help maximize the independence of your loved one with PD while caring for yourself.
Learn More:
Physical therapy helps someone with PD exercise
Physical therapy – exercise and Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease — how physical therapy can help
Want to see a physical therapist but not sure where to start?
Call us at 858-273-6763 and we can get you pointed in the right direction!
*PD Plan for Life: “What you should know before choosing a physical therapist”