Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a prevalent degenerative brain disease affecting nearly one million people in the US. Patients living with PD have an increased risk of falling injury due to balance and mobility challenges. Because physical therapists are experts in mobility and movement training, they provide unique solutions for managing PD symptoms and keeping their patients active.
Physical Therapy for Treating Parkinson’s Disease
According to Ziya Altug, one of our expert Luna PTs, “a physical therapist not only designs a customized exercise program for the person’s needs and goals but also helps an individual with Parkinson’s manage both their motor and nonmotor symptoms.”
With the help of a PT, an individual living with Parkinson’s will gain valuable patient information and education on the following to treat common motor symptoms such as stiffness and slowed movement:
- Fall prevention
- Gait training
- Strength and mobility exercises
- Training in assistive devices
A therapist will also assess any non-motor symptoms related to your PD diagnosis, which may include the following:
- Fatigue
- Lack of motivation
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Sleep disorders
- Lightheadedness
A physical therapist will design a personalized solution based on your needs and goals, so you wake up confident, refreshed, and ready to take control of your Parkinson’s.
Improving Quality of Life and Regaining Independence with Luna
Physical therapists play a crucial role in improving the quality of life of a patient with Parkinson’s, and in-home PT is a game-changer for many. Fatigue is a big part of living with Parkinson’s and can be made worse by slowed movement and muscle stiffness —both major symptoms. When you feel the effects of fatigue, even the smallest tasks seem like a burden. Visiting your local clinic to get the help you need often feels impossible.
Staying active and managing your pain (and fatigue) with in-home physical therapy is much easier. Here’s what Ziya Altug, PT, has to say about at-home treatment:
“Depending on the patient's goals and level of function, I can design simple activity programs the patient can perform in their living room, kitchen, patio, or even garden. Some of my patients have requested we design a program around their mall walking club, local park walking program, or community gardening program. The community-based programs provide patients with an opportunity to socialize and maintain independence in activities of daily living.”
Not only does Luna help patients get the care they need to improve their quality of life, but PTs can also create a highly specialized mobility plan to manage symptoms and reduce pain. By developing an activity program incorporating normal daily activities, patients feel more empowered to return to the social activities they love!
Luna provides the building blocks to a better life for Parkinson’s patients. We’re making physical therapy safe, convenient, and comfortable. If you or a loved one are suffering from PD and don’t know where to begin, we can help. Learn more or contact us today to get matched with a Luna PT in your area.
