Parkinson’s disease is a chronic, progressive, neurological disease affecting the motor system due to a lack of dopamine stored within the basal ganglia of the brain. Severity of Parkinson’s can vary drastically and affect individuals in different ways. Typical diagnosis happens between the ages of 50-79, however it may present earlier or later in life as well. 

Individuals with Parkinson’s disease often have symptoms that include slow movements, muscle rigidity, tremors, difficult walking, short, shuffling steps, balance issues, and posture instability, among others. While there is no “cure” for Parkinson’s disease, Vita’s physical therapists assist in restoring as much function, strength, and independence as possible so you can partake in all the activities you love for as long as possible.

Physical therapy is an important component of an individual’s overall treatment and management of Parkinson’s disease. Providing someone with as much independence as possible while maintaining safety is Vita’s primary goal.  

Therapeutic techniques focus on:

• Progressive resistance exercise to improve overall balance, mobility, trunk rotation, endurance, and improve movement patterns and gait sequencing. 
• Proprioception (the sense of self-movement, force, and body position) when standing, walking, and stepping up and down stairs is often used to restore as much functional independence as possible.