Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson disease is caused by loss of nerve cells in the part of the brain called the substantia nigra (basal ganglia).
These cells are responsible for the production of dopamine a neurotransmitter important in the initiation and control of movement.
In Parkinson’s Disease and other associated conditions, it’s important for therapists to find the “switch” in the production of movement to correct movement disorders.
Treatment will include finding a client’s “switch” to the initiation of movement, relaxation strategies, balance and range of movement exercises.
We can see clients either at home or in clinic. In clinic we will have access to a treadmill and a body weight unweighting system where clients can practice gait re-education with music therapy which provides bio feedback on step length, speed and symmetry with the aim of improving the quality of walking. For further information please see the Biodex Gait Trainer 3 on the Service Page. Music therapy is well recognised in the treatment of conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease and Parkinsonism.
Symptoms include:
- Tremors
- Rigidity or stiffness
- Bradykinesia (slow movements)
- Reduced balance and coordination
- Falls
- Inability to move
- Shuffling gait pattern
- Stooped posture
- Foot and toe curling
- Difficulty swallowing and chewing
Other conditions which have Parkinsonism symptoms include:
- Corticobasal degeneration
- Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)
- Multi System Atrophy (MSA)
- Dementia with Lewy Bodies
- Wilson’s Disease
- Huntington’s Disease
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Spinocerebellar Ataxia
Appointments
Get in touch with a member of our friendly team
Office 3
Northlight Estate
Northlight Parade
Nelson
BB9 5EG