Hibiscus Neuro Rehab

06/05/2026

Welcome to the team Sadhana, Brain Injury Connect Group, Parkinson's Disease and movement, balance retraining, and how a concussion is diagnosed - https://mailchi.mp/hibiscusneurorehab/june1concussionandactivity-10594727

06/05/2026

✨️ Exciting News at Hibiscus Neuro Rehab! ✨️

We’re thrilled to welcome two new team members to the Hibiscus Neuro Rehab family—Madison and Sadhana!

Madison has a strong interest in supporting people with stroke, Parkinson’s, balance, and neurological rehabilitation, and is passionate about helping clients build confidence and improve movement in a way that feels meaningful to them.

Sadhana brings a keen interest in concussion, vestibular rehabilitation, and balance, and enjoys working with individuals to reduce symptoms and get back to doing the things they love.

Both Madison and Sadhana are committed to providing personalised, supportive care and are excited to be part of our community here on the Hibiscus Coast.

👉 If you or someone you know could benefit from support with neurological or balance concerns, we offer a FREE 15-minute consult to get you started.

☎️ Call us on 09 424 3254
🌐 Visit hibiscusneurorehab.co.nz

05/05/2026

🧠 ✨️ Brain Boost Bite

Even one poor night of sleep can affect how your brain performs the next day.

Sleep deprivation can make it harder to focus, concentrate and make clear decisions.

If you’re feeling foggy or distracted, your brain might be asking for rest. Prioritising consistent, quality sleep supports clearer thinking and better day-to-day function.

Small habits, done consistently, support a stronger, more focused brain. 🌺

05/05/2026

📢 We’re excited to welcome Sadhana to the Hibiscus Neuro Rehab team! 👋

Sadhna is a physiotherapist with a special interest in concussion management, vestibular rehabilitation, and improving balance. She brings a thoughtful, patient-centered approach to helping people regain confidence in their movement and everyday function.

We’re thrilled to have her on board and can’t wait for you to meet her! 💚

📞 Ready to book or learn more? Call us on 09 424 3254 or visit hibiscusneurorehab.co.nz

04/05/2026

Why do people with Parkinson’s experience freezing? ❄️

“Freezing of gait” (FOG) refers to sudden episodes where a person feels like their feet are stuck to the floor and they can’t take the next step.

This often occurs:
- When starting to walk
- Turning or changing direction
- Approaching a doorway or obstacle
- Under stress or dual-task conditions

Freezing is caused by disrupted signalling between brain regions responsible for movement initiation.

Physiotherapists can help by teaching cueing strategies, such as stepping over lines, counting rhythms, or using auditory cues to overcome freezing episodes.

03/05/2026

Does Parkinson’s Disease cause pain? ⚡️

Pain is a common symptom in Parkinson’s Disease and can present in several forms:
- Musculoskeletal pain from stiffness or poor posture
- Neuropathic pain related to nerve dysfunction
- Dystonic pain due to involuntary muscle contractions
- Central pain linked to changes in the brain’s pain perception

Pain can affect mobility, mood, and sleep, but it’s often under-recognised and undertreated.

A tailored treatment plan, including physiotherapy, stretching, medication, and mindfulness-based approaches, can significantly reduce discomfort and improve daily life.

30/04/2026

Can Parkinson’s Disease affect memory or thinking? 🧠

Yes, Parkinson’s Disease can affect cognition, especially in the later stages. Common cognitive symptoms include:
- Difficulty with planning and problem-solving
- Slower processing speed (bradyphrenia)
- Memory lapses or trouble finding words
- Trouble with concentration and multitasking

About 30–50% of people with Parkinson’s may eventually develop Parkinson’s Disease Dementia, particularly after many years of living with the condition.
Early cognitive support, mental stimulation, and working with occupational therapists or neuropsychologists can help manage these challenges.

29/04/2026

🧠 ✨️ Brain Boost Bite

Sleep does more than recharge your body — it helps regulate your emotions and build resilience for the day ahead.

When you are well rested, it is easier to manage stress, respond calmly and navigate challenges.

When sleep is disrupted, everything can feel that little bit harder. Prioritising consistent, restful sleep can make a big difference to how you feel both mentally and emotionally.

Small habits, done consistently, support a stronger, more resilient brain. 🌺

27/04/2026

How does Parkinson’s Disease affect speech? 💬

Up to 90% of people with Parkinson’s experience changes in their voice and speech. This includes:

- Soft or breathy voice
- Monotone or low-pitched voice
- Slurred or mumbled words
- Speaking too quickly or slowly
- Difficulty with volume control

These changes are due to decreased coordination and strength of the muscles involved in speech.

Speech therapy, particularly programs like LSVT LOUD, can significantly improve clarity, loudness, and confidence in communication.

26/04/2026

23/04/2026

How does Parkinson’s Disease affect movement? 🏃‍♂️

Parkinson’s Disease affects movement planning, initiation, and ex*****on due to dopamine loss in the brain.

Common motor effects include:
1. Bradykinesia: Slowness of movement, making simple tasks like getting out of a chair or brushing teeth more difficult.
2. Freezing of gait: Sudden, temporary inability to move forward while walking.
3. Rigidity: Stiff muscles, often resulting in joint pain and reduced range of motion.
4. Shuffling gait: Small, flat steps that can affect balance and lead to falls.
5. Reduced automatic movements: Less blinking, facial expression, or arm swing.

Specialised neurological physiotherapy can help improve mobility, coordination, and safety in everyday tasks.