Allied Health Spotlight Series: Physical Therapy Recommendations for Exercising Safely

Substantial Matters: Life & Science of Parkinson’s

Allied health professionals are a group of healthcare providers whose role and expertise complement the work of physicians. These include specialists such as physical and occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, nutritionists, and many more. They are just as important as your Movement Disorders Specialists and Neurologists, and play a vital role in creating a comprehensive, well-rounded Parkinson’s care team that caters to your individual needs and addresses your overall well-being.

In this first episode of our Allied Health Spotlight series, we explore the benefits of including physical therapy in your care plan.

Exercise is a vital component for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) to maintain balance, mobility, and activities of daily living. It should be part of the standard practice of care for every person with PD. Research has shown that exercise is the only intervention with the potential to slow the progression of the disease. In this episode, Physical Therapist Tricia Brown, PT, DPT, NCS of Chapman University in California, who specializes in neurologic diseases, discusses some considerations for exercising safely, taking into account the particular needs of people with PD. She also talks about how to get and stay motivated to exercise and where to find classes or programs.