For gait and balance:
• Therapeutic exercise, balance exercise and fall prevention training
For freezing of gait:
• Don’ t“ fight” the freeze
At the first sign of shuffling or freeze, remember the 4 S’ s: Stop Sigh – take a deep breath Shift – weight side – to-side Step – take a large step Count“ 1 and 2 and 3...” and then step. Imagine stepping over something on the ground and then actually step over it. Place all of your weight on one leg while you swing the other leg back and forth a few times. On the last swing forward, take a step.
Other Tips
• Caregiver training in assistance techniques
• Home modifications and adaptive equipment / devices
Research Articles Landers M, Adams M, Acosta K, Fox A. Challenge-oriented gait and balance training in sporadic olivopontocerebellar atrophy: a case study. J Neurol Phys Ther 20Sep; 33( 3): 160-8.
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Venglar M. Case report: Tai Chi and Parkinsonism. Physiother Res 2005; 10( 2): 116-21.
Wedge F. The impact of resistance training on balance and functional ability of a patient with multiple system atrophy. J Geriatr Phys Ther 2008; 31( 2): 79-83.
Winter Y, et al. Health-related quality of life in multiple system atrophy and progressive supranuclear palsy. Neurodegener Dis. 2011; 8( 6): 438-46.