Parkinson's disease is a degenerative disease of the brain that often impairs motor skills, speech, and other functions. It belongs to a group of conditions called movement disorders and it typically affects movement and thus the day to day functioning of the patient.
Rehabilitation has an important impact on reducing functional limitations and disability and promoting optimal health in a patient with Parkinson’s disease. The enhancement of quality of life is the most important outcome for individuals with a chronic Parkinsonism.
Restorative rehabilitation or the rehabilitation aimed at restoring the functions is focused on improvement of strength, Range of motion (ROM), functional performance, endurance and so forth using remedial and compensatory training strategies.
Individuals from Parkinson’s also benefit a lot from “Functional maintenance programs”. These programs are designed to manage the effects of progressive disease. Strategies are developed to prevent or slow decline of function, and promote regular exercise, good health, and self management skills.
For optimal management of a Parkinson’s patient a coordinated team of health professionals, including the physician, nurse, physical therapist, occupational therapist and speech/ language pathologist work in close unison. Consultation to other specialists like nutritionist, gastroenterologist, urologist, pulmonologist, is also done, if need be. This dedicated team has a focus on long range planning which is critical for effective management.
The patient and the family member are considered the key members of the team in the rehabilitation of a parkinson’s patient who are fully involved in all aspects of the treatment planning process.
For detailed information on Parkinson’s rehabiliation please log on to www.indicure.com, www.indicurerehabilitation.com, or write to drruchika.m@
