Today is World Parkinson’s Day. About 1 million people in the United States are living with Parkinson’s disease, a movement disorder that may cause difficulty with walking, talking or doing simple tasks as it progresses. A variety of treatments such as physical, occupational and speech therapy can help.

Characteristics of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s occurs when brain stem cells do not produce enough dopamine, a brain chemical that helps control muscle movement. About 60,000 new cases are reported in the United States each year, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).

Parkinson’s typically begins around age 60, but it can also occur in younger people. It is slightly more common in men than in women.

Symptoms start gradually, often with a slight tremor in a hand or foot, usually occurring when the muscles are at rest or relaxed. Tremors often begin on one side of the body and then expand to both sides. Common symptoms of Parkinson’s include:

• Trembling of hands, arms, legs, jaw and face.
• Stiffness of the arms, legs and trunk.
• Slowness of movement.
• Poor balance and coordination.

People with Parkinson’s also may have depression, sleep problems or trouble chewing, swallowing or speaking.

Parkinson’s Treatments

Parkinson’s has no cure, but symptoms can be improved. Managing the disease can involve a variety of treatments, with a care team of physicians, therapists and other providers. According to Chad Gooding, MS, PT, LSVT certified, of Aultman Therapy Services, treatments may include:

• Medication management.
• Regular high-intensity, large amplitude exercises designed by a physical therapist, occupational therapist or speech therapist.
• Deep brain stimulation (DBS), if suggested by a physician. DBS is a neurosurgical procedure to treat the most commonly debilitating symptoms of Parkinson’s. It is used only for individuals whose symptoms cannot be adequately controlled by medications.

In addition, a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins is recommended. Gooding also suggests that Parkinson’s patients join a support group, which can provide emotional support and valuable tips from others living with Parkinson’s.

How Therapy Can Help

As part of its comprehensive therapy services, Aultman Therapy Services offers two special programs at therapy locations in Stark, Tuscarawas and Wayne counties for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders. Aultman therapists are certified in Lee Silverman Voice Treatment® programs, which have been proven effective for treating voice and movement disorders.

LSVT LOUD® treatment focuses on improving vocal loudness for daily oral communication. From pre- to post-treatment, 90% of patients improve vocal loudness.

LSVT BIG® applies the principles of LOUD treatment to limb movement in people with Parkinson’s disease, resulting in documented improvements in speed of movement, balance and quality of life.

Aultman Therapy Services also has partnered with the YMCA of Greater Stark County to offer a continuum of care to individuals with Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. The YMCA offers a free evidence-based exercise program to help slow disease progression, maintain the gains made through outpatient therapy services, improve other aspects of movement and build a community of people with Parkinson’s and other movement disorders.

For more information, visit Aultman Therapy Services LSVT Programs.

Sources:
Aultman Therapy Services
MedlinePlus
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
The Staywell Company, LLC