Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. It occurs when nerve cells in the brain that produce the neurotransmitter dopamine are damaged or die.

Common symptoms include tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and difficulty with balance. Other symptoms may include changes in handwriting, a stooped posture, and a shuffling walk.

The exact cause is unknown, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to contribute. Age is a significant risk factor, and the majority of cases occur in people over the age of 60.

Physiotherapy can be beneficial for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. While it may not cure the condition, it can help manage and improve various symptoms associated with Parkinson’s. Here are several ways in which physiotherapy can be helpful:

Mobility and Balance: Parkinson’s disease often affects mobility and balance. MOTIONrehab provide exercises that focus on improving these aspects, helping individuals move more confidently and reducing the risk of falls.
Gait Training: MOTIONrehab work with individuals to address changes in their walking patterns common in Parkinson’s disease. We can use specific exercises and techniques to improve stride length, step initiation, and overall gait. Alternatively in our Intensive rehabilitation clinics patients can use either the Lexo or Lyra, Robotic Gait Trainers to complete high repetition training in natural walking patterns.

Strengthening Exercises: Weakness and muscle stiffness are common in Parkinson’s. MOTIONrehab have a team of specialists that use targeted exercises to strengthen muscles, improving overall flexibility and reducing stiffness.
Range of Motion Exercises: Parkinson’s can lead to a decreased range of motion in joints. Physiotherapy can include exercises to maintain or improve joint flexibility, making daily movements easier. The MOTIONrehab team can devise a specific programme tailored to individual needs.

Posture Improvement: Parkinson’s disease may cause changes in posture, such as a stooped or forward-leaning position. The MOTIONrehab team provide exercises and guidance to improve posture and prevent further complications.

Coordination and Motor Control: The MOTIONrehab team focus on enhancing coordination and motor control, addressing challenges with fine and gross motor skills that individuals with Parkinson’s may experience.

Cueing Strategies: Using rhythmic cues during walking can improve walking patterns. MOTIONrehab use external cues (visual, auditory, or tactile) to help individuals with Parkinson’s initiate and control movements more effectively. Alternatively, the use of Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) can be helpful and the MOTIONrehab team have expertise in a range of devices that can help provide stimulation and sensory cues to help with walking.

Home Exercise Programs: MOTIONrehab design personalized home exercise programs that individuals with Parkinson’s can incorporate into their daily routines, promoting long-term benefits.

Education and Support: MOTIONrehab can provide education sessions to individuals with Parkinson’s and their caregivers about the importance of exercise, proper body mechanics, and strategies for managing symptoms. This education can empower individuals to actively participate in their care.

While most cases are not directly inherited, having a family member with Parkinson’s may slightly increase the risk. Certain genetic mutations have been linked to Parkinson’s, but they are not the sole cause.

There is no specific test for Parkinson’s disease. Diagnosis is based on medical history, symptoms, and sometimes imaging tests like MRI to rule out other conditions.

Currently, there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, and medications such as levodopa are commonly prescribed.

Parkinson’s disease is progressive, meaning symptoms generally worsen over time. However, the rate of progression can vary among individuals.

DBS is a surgical procedure where electrodes are implanted in the brain, and a device similar to a pacemaker is placed under the skin. It can help control tremors and other symptoms in some Parkinson’s patients.

Yes, there are many support groups and organizations that provide information, resources, and a sense of community for individuals with Parkinson’s and their caregivers:

• parkinsons.org.uk
• parkinsonscare.org.uk

On arrival you will be provided with our Terms and Conditions of Business and the relevant consent forms to agree to treatment. If you would like to receive these in advance of your appointment please contact our Client Services Team on 0800 8600 138. and they will assist you. If received in advance please bring the completed document with you to the first appointment.

As part of your initial assessment, your physiotherapist will need to take details of your medical history, present condition, allergies/sensitivities and current medications. Please come to the appointment in comfortable clothing, for example, shorts, t-shirt, and trainers.