The main goal of these treatments is to alleviate symptoms that medication cannot sufficiently treat. The mind can benefit from exercise, relaxation, and other forms of movement, last but not least. It’s crucial to have good therapy support.
How do physical activity and sports help?
Sport and physical activity can help slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease by providing stretching, endurance training, muscle activation and relaxation, strength training, balance training, dancing, music therapy, tai chi, Qigong, Yoga, and walking and running training. Examples include stretching exercises, endurance training, muscle activation and relaxation, strength training, balance training, dancing, music therapy, tai chi, Qigong, Yoga, and walking and running training.
Studies have shown that range-of-motion exercises can help people get mobile again and walk more quickly, enhance balance and coordination, and reduce falls. Physical therapists can provide instruction on how to perform movement exercises independently, and the expenses are covered by health insurance. The focus of the treatment varies depending on the stage of the illness, with more demanding training being possible in the early stages.
What takes place in occupational therapy?
Occupational therapy aims to help people take care of themselves and manage daily activities independently. It may involve customizing living and working spaces to suit their needs. Exercises can help with both gross and fine motor skills, as well as manual and artistic exercises. Goals and exercises are determined with the therapist.
What role does speech therapy play?
Speech therapy is an important part of Parkinson’s disease treatment, as it helps to improve communication skills and self-confidence in social situations. It involves various relaxation and speaking exercises or singing exercises, as well as honed facial muscles’ range of motion, facial expressions, and breathing. The type of speech therapy employed depends on the individual’s complaints and preferences. Disorders of swallowing can also be treated.
When should you seek psychological support?
Mental stress is linked to Parkinson’s disease, and some sufferers experience depressive symptoms. Having psychological support and company can help cope with the diagnosis and the knowledge that the symptoms will worsen over time. There are also psychological counseling services and self-help groups available.
Which research questions are still open?
Speech therapy and ergotherapy are used to treat Parkinson’s symptoms, but there have only been a few scientific studies to date. This raises questions about the efficacy of these treatments and the most effective occupational and speech therapy techniques. Consistent movement and coordination exercises have been better understood for a short period of time, but it is unknown if they can slow the disease’s progression.
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