PARKINSON'S DISEASE

Physiotherapy for Parkinson's Disease

ACP provides physiotherapy for older people with Parkinson's disease, focusing on walking, balance, freezing, transfers, strength and mobility.

Older adults exercising

What is happening in Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease affects brain cells involved in producing and controlling movement. This can lead to slower movement, stiffness, smaller steps, reduced automatic movements and difficulty turning or starting to walk.

How physiotherapy helps with this

Physiotherapy uses deliberate movement, strengthening, balance work, walking practice and external cues such as rhythm or visual targets. These strategies can help compensate for reduced automatic movement and maintain mobility and independence.

What is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's disease is a neurological condition that affects movement. Symptoms can include slowness, stiffness, tremor, changes in walking and balance problems.

What problems can people face?

People may experience shuffling or small steps, difficulty turning, freezing, difficulty getting out of a chair, reduced balance and falls.

What can happen when it is not addressed?

Changes in walking and balance can increase falls risk and make everyday activities harder. Reduced activity can also contribute to weakness and loss of physical capacity.

How ACP can help

ACP can work on walking and gait, balance, turning, freezing strategies, transfers, strength, posture, exercise, falls prevention and mobility aids. Programs can be adapted as needs change.

When should physiotherapy be considered?

Consider physiotherapy when walking, balance, transfers or confidence are changing, or after a fall or decline in mobility.

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Further information: Parkinson's Australia