11/18/2024
🧠 Bradykinesia in Parkinson’s Disease: How Physical Therapy Can Help
Bradykinesia (slowness of movement) is a core symptom of Parkinson’s disease that affects many daily activities, making simple movements like getting out of a chair or walking across the room much harder. Research published in Movement Disorders shows that bradykinesia can significantly impair functional mobility, contributing to an increased fall risk.
Evidence-Based Interventions:
- Big Movements: The LSVT BIG program, a well-researched physical therapy technique, focuses on large, exaggerated movements. Studies have shown that this program can improve speed, stride length, and the quality of movement in individuals with Parkinson’s, reducing the risk of falls due to slow or stiff movements.
- Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation (RAS): Research in Journal of Parkinson's Disease supports the use of rhythmic auditory cues to help improve gait speed and coordination. By using a metronome or music to synchronize walking, people with Parkinson’s can move more effectively and avoid stumbles.
By focusing on improving speed and movement quality through LSVT BIG and rhythmic cues, we help reduce the risk of falls by enabling quicker and more fluid movement.
At Forever Active Physical Therapy, we tailor interventions like these to your specific needs, helping you move more freely and safely.
Beginning in 2025, we will be offering the LSVT BIG program in the patient’s home, becoming the only certified LSVT BIG provider to offer this program in home in Flagler county!
