Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive disorder that affects the central nervous system and impairs the body’s ability to coordinate movement. Because it impacts multiple areas of the brain, symptoms can vary widely between individuals and progress at different rates—ranging from mild to aggressive. Common symptoms include slowed movements (bradykinesia), difficulty starting or stopping walking, and tremors often seen in the hands. Muscle rigidity may develop, leading to reduced motion and poor posture. One particularly dangerous symptom is retropulsion, where a person has a tendency to fall backward with little ability to protect themselves.

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Speech can also be affected, often becoming slurred and slow due to weakened control of the mouth, tongue, and throat muscles. Eating and drinking may become challenging because of swallowing difficulties. Other symptoms may include trouble with handwriting, which can become small or illegible.

How Therapy Helps

Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are vital components of care for people with Parkinson’s Disease. Although there is no cure, rehabilitation can significantly improve function and help maintain progress. Working closely with your physician, therapy focuses on enhancing movement, safety, independence with daily activities, transfers, cognitive skills, and speech/swallowing abilities.

  • Physical Therapy aims to improve range of motion, strength, endurance, safe transfers (especially from low surfaces), posture, and overall mobility.
  • Occupational Therapy focuses on upper extremity movements, cognitive skills, coordination for dressing and self-care, and adaptive techniques to maximize independence in daily living.
  • Speech Therapy targets speech clarity, safe eating and drinking, cognitive function, and improving handwriting skills.

Our rehabilitation team works collaboratively with you and your family, providing education and support to help you achieve maximum independence.

For more information, contact us at our Greenwood, IN center.