Can Physiotherapist help in Parkinson?

A person with Parkinson’s may be experiencing several symptoms at the same time; your history taking and physical assessment should elicit the main issue (s) to prioritise as part of the management strategy. Whilst physiotherapy concentrates on the physical manifestations of a disorder, don’t forget to pay attention to how their other symptoms impact on the person’s lifestyle.

The focus of physiotherapy for the individual with Parkinson’s disease is to improve the patient’s quality of life.

Following are some detailed physiotherapy assessment, as a treatment plan may include:

• Walking re-education – speed, distance, quality
• Postural stability exercises
• Muscle strengthening
• Range of movement stretches
• Transfer practice – sit to stand, in and out of bath
• Stairs, steps practice
• Relaxation techniques
• Breathing exercises
• Provision of recommended aids and equipment
• Diet and lifestyle advice

Aims of Physiotherapy

• Maintain and improve levels of function and independence, which will help to improve a person’s quality of life
• Use exercise and movement strategies to improve mobility
• Correct and improve abnormal movement patterns and posture, where possible
• Maximize muscle strength and joint flexibility
• Correct and improve posture and balance, and minimise risks of falls
• Maintain a good breathing pattern and effective cough
• Educate the person with Parkinson’s and their carer or family members
• Enhance the effects of drug therapy

The Review version of the European Physiotherapy Guideline divides physiotherapy intervention for Parkinson’s into exercise and movement strategy training.