Take Control: Physical Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson's Disease (PD), also known as Idiopathic Parkinsonism, affects approximately 1% of the population over age 55, with prevalence increasing with age. While the exact cause is unknown, genetic predisposition, family history, and head trauma have all been linked to an increased risk of developing the condition.
What Causes Parkinson's Disease?
PD is associated with decreased dopamine production in the basal ganglia, a region of the brain responsible for movement control. Dopamine levels can drop by as much as 80% before a person begins showing noticeable signs and symptoms. This delay reflects the brain's remarkable adaptability — but it also underscores why early treatment after diagnosis is so important. Diagnosis is made by a neurologist, and ongoing care typically combines medication with physical therapy.
3 Things We Tell Every New PD Patient
PD is predictably unpredictable. No one can say for certain how the disease will progress. Research shows that combining medication with physical therapy may help slow, stop, or even partially reverse functional decline.
Never say never. Myths abound about what people with PD can and can't do. We've worked with patients who continued careers as kickboxers, professors, and parents — all after diagnosis. A full, active life is still possible with PD.
Don't neglect your overall health. Outcomes with PD-specific treatment are closely tied to general health. The stronger and healthier your body overall, the more benefit you'll get from PD-focused therapy.
The Research: Why Exercise Matters for Parkinson's Disease
Across major Parkinson's research groups — including LSVT BIG and PWR! (Parkinson Wellness Recovery) — the evidence consistently points to the same conclusion: a target-specific exercise program may be essential to delaying the progression and functional decline associated with PD. Starting physical therapy as early as possible after diagnosis is critical.
Self-Guided Exercise Tips If You Can't Start PT Right Away
If you're not yet able to begin physical therapy, these guidelines can help you maintain function in the meantime:
Stay active. PD itself doesn't cause weakness — inactivity after diagnosis does. Keep up strength training, Pilates, or yoga. If an activity becomes too difficult, find a substitute that still challenges you.
Add aerobic exercise. Numerous studies link aerobic activity to improved brain health, which is especially relevant in PD since the brain is the affected structure.
Join a support group. Connecting with others who understand life with a neurological condition can be an important part of coping and staying motivated.
Parkinson's Disease Treatment at Thrive Integrated Physical Therapy
Early intervention is one of the most important factors in maintaining a long, active life with PD. If you're located in New York City, Thrive Integrated Physical Therapy is one of the few outpatient clinics in the city with physical therapists certified in the assessment and treatment of Parkinson's Disease, including specialists Donny Chan and Duane Grell.
Reach out today to schedule an appointment and build a PD-specific treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much physical activity should someone with Parkinson's Disease do?
Patients should stay as active as possible, combining strength training with aerobic exercise, and work with a PT-certified specialist for a program tailored to their symptoms and stage of progression.
Can physical therapy slow the progression of Parkinson's Disease?
Research from groups like LSVT BIG and PWR! suggests that target-specific exercise therapy, combined with medication, may help slow, stop, or partially reverse functional decline associated with PD.
Is it normal to lose muscle mass after a Parkinson's diagnosis?
Muscle loss after diagnosis is typically due to reduced activity, not the disease itself. Staying engaged in strength training and other exercise helps prevent this.
Who treats Parkinson's Disease at Thrive PT?
Thrive Integrated Physical Therapy's Parkinson's specialists include Donny Chan and myself Duane Grell. We are both certified in the assessment and treatment of individuals with PD.
