Parkinson's disease (PD) belongs to a group of conditions called motor system disorders, which are the result of the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells.
The four primary symptoms of PD are:
- Tremor, or trembling in hands, arms, legs, jaw, and face;
- Rigidity, or stiffness of the limbs and trunk;
- Bradykinesia, or slowness of movement; and
- Postural instability, or impaired balance and coordination.
As these symptoms become more pronounced, patients may have difficulty walking, talking, or completing other simple tasks.
PD usually affects people over the age of 60.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Snyder Physical Therapy is proud to offer LSVT BIG. LSVT BIG is a research-based exercise approach developed and scientifically researched over the past 20 years with funding from the National Institutes of Health. Research on LSVT BIG has documented improved ratings on tests of motor functioning in people with Parkinson’s disease following treatment. Improvements include:
- Faster walking with bigger steps
- Improved balance
- Increased trunk rotation
Research suggests that you should NOT wait until you begin to experience disability, impaired function or loss of balance to start exercise-based physical therapy. If you have questions on LSVT BIG please contact Amanda Woodhead PT, DPT at (402) 489-1999.
