Treatment Centre
Neurological Teaching CentreParkinson's Disease
Physiotherapy has a key role to play in patients with Parkinson's disease. A common problem that people find is that their movement is more difficult, slower and stiffer than it used to be. Common activities that are carried out on a daily basis may not be as automatic as they were. These include walking, standing up, rolling or turning over in bed and getting in and out of a car.
As physiotherapists we use the Bobath concept to treat patients with Parkinson's and other neurological conditions. This involves re-alignment of the body, loosening stiff joints and muscles to promote more freedom of movement.
If muscles are used less frequently they lose strength. As part of our treatment we give specific exercise, tailored to suit each individuals needs.
Another feature of Parkinson's disease is a stooped posture which may contribute to balance problems. We can help to retain an upright posture which will help prevent or reduce the risk of falling. A shuffling gait can often present as a problem in this condition. This affects the quality of walking, reducing speed and confidence and also increases the risk of falling. The physiotherapist will mobilise the appropriate body parts with her hands to "wake them up" and try to make them operate more efficiently.
It is common with Parkinson's disease to lose some confidence and feel lower in mood than normal and it is part of our role to encourage and motivate the patient and any careers involved through any difficult times.
Ultimately we aim to promote independence and improve quality of life by assisting and advising on how to manage Parkinson's disease in the most effective way possible.