Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for people with PD. Allied health professionals, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists, can help manage symptoms at every stage of the disease1. Most often, people with Parkinson’s are only referred to rehabilitation services when recovering from an injury, such as a fall. However, It’s essential to start rehabilitation at the time of diagnosis and continue consistently, ideally every six to 12 months1. Rehabilitation therapies and exercise can slow disease progression, address movement symptoms, improve daily functioning, and enhance mood and mental health.
Here’s how each therapy contributes:
1. Physical Therapy
- Physical therapy helps people with PD maintain movement and enhance their ability to move.
- Research shows that gait and balance training, resistance exercises, and regular physical activity may improve or stabilize PD symptoms1.
2. Occupational Therapy
- Occupational therapists focus on maintaining independence in daily activities. They help people with PD continue pursuing meaningful activities, whether at work, in hobbies, social life, or daily tasks1.
3. Speech Therapy
- Up to 89% of people with PD experience speech changes. Speech-language pathologists evaluate speech, voice, communication, swallowing, and memory/thinking function. Early treatment can help regain lost voice or speech function, reduce vocal fatigue, and boost confidence2.
- Studies show that speech and swallowing improve more rapidly with ongoing practice and regular therapy tune-ups1.
Therapies designed for Parkinson’s disease treatment:
- Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) LOUD:
- LSVT LOUD aims to recalibrate the perception of loudness in a person’s voice.
- Participants practice speaking at a more normal volume, improving speech and communication5.
- Parkinson Voice Project SPEAK OUT!:
- This program also focuses on enhancing speech and swallowing by practicing with INTENT to boost strength and awareness.
- LSVT-BIG (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment – BIG)
- LSVT-BIG is a specialized physical therapy program designed for people with PD. It emphasizes high-intensity exercises with large-amplitude movements.
- LSVT-BIG is a specialized physical therapy program designed for people with PD. It emphasizes high-intensity exercises with large-amplitude movements.
- PWR! (Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery)
- PWR! is another therapeutic approach for PD that emphasizes functional movements and more controlled actions.
Stay Engaged
Despite the evidence supporting these therapies, only 14% of people with PD use them as part of their treatment plan. Let’s spread awareness about their benefits and encourage more individuals to seek rehabilitation services1.
Remember, building a strong rehabilitation team is critical for maximizing quality of life. So, if you or someone you know is living with PD, consider exploring these therapies to enhance well-being and maintain independence!
Tip: Request a referral for therapy from your neurologist or movement disorder specialist or contact us here at Sage to get more information about starting therapy.
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