Parkinsons Disease
Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive disorder which mainly affects the ability to move. This is due to cell death in an area of the brain known as the substantia nigra which is involved in eliciting the movement of the body. The main characteristics of PD are:
Tremor, which normally occurs at rest, during reduced periods of movement movement or when asleep.
Slowness of Movement (Bradykinesia) which inhibits both the planning and execution of the movement.
Rigidity or stiffness of the muscles due to increased tone.
These in turn can cause weakness, changes in posture, reduced flexibility difficulties with speech and swallowing, reduced balance with risk of falling and difficulty with writing.
These main symptoms have an affect on function making it more difficult to do such tasks as turn in bed, stand up, walk, turn and use the hands in a controlled manner. People can also develop problems with concentration, memory and problem solving.
Physiotherapy and Parkinsons Disease
At the East Cliff Therapy Centre, one of our Specialist Neurophysiotherapists will perform an assessment looking for all the characteristics of PD and how it may be affecting a client’s functional ability. A treatment plan and realistic achievable goals will then be discussed with the client and their family/carers.
Treatment could include:
Stretches to maintain or improve muscle, short tissue length and flexibility. This may involve the physio, individual or carer.
Posture advice when in bed, sitting and standing. Standing posture to ensure an upright stance, which is important to help improved walking.
Practice of functional tasks using cueing (the implementation of movement signals. There is substantial evidence of the use of cueing and PD and your therapist will discuss all types of cueing to determine the most effective one.
If your require treatment, help or advice please contact us or call: 01202 296969.
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