Parkinson's Rehabilitation

Overview

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disease that arises when the nerve cells in the movement-regulating regions of the brain gradually decline and the production of a chemical called dopamine decreases. It primarily affects the initiation, speed and fluency of movement.

Parkinson's follows a different course in each person and usually progresses slowly. While medication is arranged by the physician, regular physiotherapy and exercise also have an important place in preserving mobility. The goal of rehabilitation is not to stop the disease, but to preserve function and independence for as long as possible.

Symptoms and Affected Functions

• Tremor — trembling seen in the hands, especially at rest.
• Muscle stiffness (rigidity) — tension in the muscles and resistance during movement.
• Slowness of movement (bradykinesia) — difficulty initiating and sustaining movement.
• Gait disturbance — walking with small steps, leaning forward and shuffling; difficulty changing direction.
• Balance problems — impaired postural control and risk of falling.
• Reduced facial expression and fine motor skills.

Rehabilitation Approach

In Parkinson's rehabilitation, exercises that encourage large, wide and purposeful movements are prioritized. Work focuses on balance, posture, walking and fluency of movement. Auditory and visual cues (rhythm, markers) are used to support walking patterns. A regular, repetitive and personalized program is known to positively influence mobility and quality of life in many cases.

What We Do

First, our physician evaluates the person's movement status, muscle stiffness, balance and walking pattern in detail and sets the treatment goals. What matters to us is not the name of the disease but the person in front of us; because there is no disease, there is a patient.

Our specialist physiotherapists prepare a fully personalized program. With neurophysiological approaches we aim to improve postural and balance control and to restore large, fluent movement patterns. We provide relief for tense and stiff muscles through stretching and mobilization techniques.

In gait work we use rhythm and cueing techniques to increase step length and walking safety. Through personalized, three-dimensional and functional exercises we support balance, strength and daily living skills, and work to reduce the risk of falling.

To make gains lasting, we arrange a home program tailored to the person and their family and suggest practical solutions that can be applied throughout the day. Through regular follow-up and check-up visits we update the program according to the course of the disease, aiming to preserve your independence and quality of life with a holistic and patient approach.