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How PhysioFunction can help if you have Parkinson's

Although there isn’t currently a cure for Parkinson’s Disease, there are treatments and therapies to help manage the condition and maintain a good quality of life.PhysioFunction’s highly experienced neurological physiotherapists, rehabilitation therapists, sports therapists and personal trainers are able to deliver tailored physiotherapy and exercise programs for clients who have Parkinson's.

Some examples of the therapy you may receive includes:

  • Hands-on facilitation and re-education of normal posture and movement patterns
  • Soft tissue techniques to release and mobilise tight muscles
  • Exercise Therapy including PD Warrior inspired exercises for Parkinson's - to work on strengthening, coordination, balance, speed of movement and cardiovascular fitness.
  • Strategies to cope with difficulties such as freezing, and initiation of movement in different situations.
  • Falls prevention – Advice, education and strategies.
  • Techniques/options for pain management
  • Aquatic Physiotherapy/Hydrotherapy can provide a supportive medium for balance and walking training whilst the water can facilitate freedom of movement and mobility of tight muscles and stiff joints.
  • Group exercise for Parkinson's - We are also able to offer group exercise with our multi-level Neurofit class which are delivered via Zoom following assessment from one of our specialist Physiotherapists. 
  • Our Neurological Physiotherapists may also suggest seeing you in your own home, outdoors, or in the community (eg. gym) to help you manage the day-to-day physical problems you may encounter, and to integrate exercise in your everyday environment.
  • Access to leading technology including, GripAble, AlterG and Desmotec d line and v line
  • Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) – in some cases, use of Functional Electrical Stimulation for walking and cycling can provide valuable sensory feedback and external cueing to aid more fluid and natural movement patterns.

Are you looking for Parkinson's (Disease) treatment? We can help! Contact us today for more information on our Parkinson's physiotherapy services.

Physiotherapy treatment for Parkinson's

Parkinson’s rehabilitation plays a vital role in helping people manage symptoms, maintain independence, and improve quality of life. At PhysioFunction, our specialist team provides personalised Parkinson’s physiotherapy and neurological rehabilitation designed to support mobility, movement, and daily function.

People living with Parkinson’s disease can experience a wide range of physical challenges including stiffness, balance problems, reduced mobility, and difficulty initiating movement. Specialist Neurological Physiotherapy for Parkinson’s can help address these symptoms and support long-term management of the condition.

Parkinson’s physiotherapy focuses on improving movement, strength, posture, and confidence in everyday activities. Our experienced neurological physiotherapists design personalised rehabilitation programmes to meet the individual needs of each client.

Common goals of Parkinson’s rehabilitation include:

  • Improving balance and posture
  • Increasing strength, flexibility, and core stability
  • Improving walking and gait
  • Teaching strategies to manage freezing of gait and shuffling steps
  • Helping initiate movement and improve automatic movements
  • Providing pain management strategies
  • Supporting breathing and voice control
  • Reducing the risk of falls
  • Improving cardiovascular fitness
  • Increasing confidence in movement and everyday activities
  • Improving overall quality of life

Through targeted therapy and structured exercise programmes, Parkinson’s physiotherapy can help individuals maintain mobility and independence for as long as possible.

Occupational Therapy for Parkinson’s

Occupational therapy is an important part of Parkinson’s rehabilitation. An Occupational Therapist (OT) can support people with Parkinson’s in maintaining independence in daily activities.

Occupational therapy may include:

  • Assistance with daily living activities such as dressing, cooking, and washing
  • Recommendations for home adaptations and assistive equipment
  • Strategies to improve energy conservation and safety
  • Support with returning to work or hobbies
  • Improving functional independence in the home and community

Speech and Language Therapy

People with Parkinson’s may experience changes in speech, communication, or swallowing.

A Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) can provide specialist support including:

  • Speech and voice therapy
  • Communication strategies
  • Swallowing assessments and treatment
  • Support with cognitive communication challenges

Medical Management and Specialist Support

Effective Parkinson’s treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach.

Your rehabilitation programme may also involve:

  • Medical professionals who manage medication for Parkinson’s symptom
  • Psychologists supporting emotional wellbeing
  • Dietitians providing nutritional guidance
  • Other rehabilitation specialists working together to optimise neurological function

How Can PhysioFunction Help With Your Parkinson's Rehabilitation

At PhysioFunction, our specialist team provides personalised Parkinson’s rehabilitation programmes designed to help individuals maintain mobility, independence, and confidence.

Physiotherapy plays a significant role in helping people manage Parkinson’s symptoms and slow the impact of physical decline. Starting rehabilitation early can help maximise long-term outcomes.

Your Parkinson’s therapy programmes may include:

  • Personalised Exercise Programs
  • Balance and Gait Training
  • Strength and Flexibility Exercises
  • Posture Correction
  • Movement Strategy Training
  • Respiratory Exercises
  • Education and Self-Management
  • Home Exercise Programs

These targeted therapies support long-term Parkinson’s rehabilitation and neurological recovery.

Start your journey with PhysioFunction today.

Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms: Early Signs, Progression, and When to Seek Help.

What Is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, coordination, and several body functions. It occurs when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine gradually become damaged or die. Dopamine is a chemical that helps control smooth and coordinated muscle movement.

As dopamine levels drop, people with Parkinson’s begin to experience noticeable movement and non-movement symptoms that can worsen over time.

Understanding the early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can help individuals seek medical advice sooner and begin treatment that improves quality of life.

Early Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

The early signs of Parkinson’s disease can be mild and may develop slowly. Many people initially mistake these symptoms for normal aging or stress.

1. Tremor (Shaking)

One of the most well-known symptoms of Parkinson’s disease is a tremor, usually beginning in the hands or fingers. Common characteristics include:

  • Rhythmic shaking when the body is at rest
  • Tremor starting on one side of the body
  • Shaking that may affect hands, arms, legs, jaw, or chin
  • A “pill-rolling” movement between the thumb and forefinger

Not everyone with Parkinson’s experiences tremors, but they are often one of the earliest signs.

2. Slowed Movement (Bradykinesia)

Bradykinesia refers to a gradual slowing of movement. People with Parkinson’s may notice:

  • Difficulty starting movements
  • Slower walking speed
  • Shorter steps or shuffling gait
  • Reduced arm swinging when walking
  • Everyday tasks taking longer to complete

This symptom can make routine activities like dressing, eating, or getting up from a chair more challenging.

3. Muscle Stiffness (Rigidity)

Muscle stiffness is another common Parkinson’s symptom. This may cause:

  • Tight or rigid muscles in the arms, legs, or neck
  • Limited range of motion
  • Pain or discomfort in muscles and joints
  • Stiffness that does not improve with movement

Rigidity can affect posture and make movement feel restricted.

4. Balance Problems and Postural Instability

As Parkinson’s progresses, balance and coordination can become affected. Symptoms may include:

  • Difficulty maintaining balance
  • Increased risk of falls
  • Stooped or hunched posture
  • Trouble turning or changing direction while walking

Postural instability often develops in later stages but can begin earlier in some individuals.

Non-Motor Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease does not only affect movement. Many people experience non-motor symptoms, sometimes years before physical symptoms appear.

Loss of Sense of Smell - A reduced ability to smell (known as hyposmia) can occur early in Parkinson’s disease. People may notice difficulty smelling foods, flowers, or other common scents.

Sleep Problems - Sleep disturbances are very common. These may include difficulty falling or staying asleep, acting out dreams during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness and restless legs.

Mood Changes - Parkinson’s disease can affect mental health and emotional wellbeing. Some individuals experience depression, anxiety, irritability and/or reduced motivation. These symptoms are linked to changes in brain chemistry.

Digestive Issues - Digestive problems such as constipation are frequently reported in Parkinson’s patients. These issues can occur early in the disease and may worsen over time.

Voice and Speech Changes - Parkinson’s can affect speech and facial muscles, leading to a softer voice, monotone speech, slurred words and reduced facial expression. These symptoms may make communication more difficult.

How Parkinson’s Symptoms Progress

Parkinson’s disease progresses gradually, and symptoms vary widely between individuals.

Typically, the condition develops in stages:

Early Stage - Mild symptoms on one side of the body. Slight tremor or stiffness. Minimal disruption to daily life

Moderate Stage - Symptoms affect both sides of the body. Walking and balance become more difficult. Daily tasks may take longer

Advanced Stage - Significant mobility challenges. Increased risk of falls. Greater reliance on assistance for daily activities.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and slow progression.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice persistent tremors, slowed movement, stiffness, or balance issues, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional.

A doctor or neurologist can evaluate symptoms and determine whether further testing is required.

While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, early treatment and lifestyle adjustments can significantly improve quality of life.

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