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Make Your Move
+ If you have balance problems or falls , especially if new or worsening Therapists offer balance and gait training to help reduce falls and improve walking , both in and outside the home . They also provide postural training , which includes strengthening and stretching to counteract PD ’ s effects on posture , such as stooping or leaning forward .
+ If you have trouble with everyday activities OT specializes in exercises and tools to help you move through daily life — getting dressed , typing or texting , driving , etc . — more safely and easily .
+ If you have trouble starting or sticking with exercise for any reason Therapists are uniquely trained to deliver exercise treatment in a way that works for you and meets your goals . Some people like to see PT or OT every few weeks or months to stay on track . Others like to go it alone and return for a “ refresher ” if they fall out of the exercise habit or new symptoms come on .
“ I realized after watching Denise go to her classes that maybe I could join in , too . And I realized I felt better and benefited greatly once I did !”
Bernard Coley , husband and care partner of Denise Coley
Make the most of your exercise team
As with all Parkinson ’ s team members , it ’ s important to develop a trusting and long-term relationship with your PT and OT . You need a partner who listens , understands and challenges you to bring out your best . Consider these tips :
+ Get direction from your doctor . Your doctor can guide you to the right providers for your symptoms and needs . They can make referrals and recommendations to specific providers . ( You may not need a referral to start seeing a PT or OT .) You can also ask others in the PD community for input .
+ Look for a Parkinson ’ s expert . See someone with experience in Parkinson ’ s . If that ’ s not available , see someone who works with people who have neurological conditions or are older . For PT and OT , check for certification in Lee Silverman Voice Treatment ( LSVT ) BIG , an intensive therapy designed for PD . Look for a PT who is a “ neurologic clinical specialist ” ( NCS ), which means they ’ ve completed rigorous training and testing in PD . Look for an OT who regularly treats people with Parkinson ’ s and / or has completed PD education and certification . If you want to work with a personal trainer or other exercise professional , ask if they ’ ve undertaken Parkinson ’ s training programs , such as a Parkinson Wellness Recovery PWR ! Moves workshop . ( See page 64 .)
+ Check insurance coverage . While physical and occupational therapy visits may be covered , at least in part , the number of sessions allowed may vary . Contact your insurer ( or ask the therapist ’ s office to ) to determine what you ’ ll pay . If your coverage seems limited or variable , ask