Parkinson’s Disease Rehabilitation

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, balance, and other functions. While there is no cure, rehabilitation can help individuals manage symptoms, stay independent, and maintain quality of life. Our team consists of experts dedicated to working with movement disorders such as Parkinson’s, parkinsonism, supranuclear palsy, ataxia, tremors, and more.

Overview

Our interdisciplinary team of physical therapists (PTs), occupational therapists (OTs), and speech-language pathologists (SLPs) provide on-on-one care and work with you to create a unique treatment plan based on your needs. Additionally, we have a full-time social worker available to assist with counseling and accessing various resources throughout the community.

Your Visit Includes:

• Gait and Mobility Training: Improving walking patterns and balance, reducing freezing episodes, and increasing confidence in movement.
• Fall Prevention and Safety: Identifying risk factors and teaching strategies to reduce fall risk at home and in the community.
• Strength, Flexibility, and Endurance: Targeted exercises to maintain function, posture, and energy levels.
• Exercise Prescription: Guidance on the right type, intensity, and frequency of exercise to support mobility and slow disease progression.
• Compensatory Strategies: Techniques to help manage symptoms and support independence during daily tasks.
• Speech Therapy: Assistance with voice strength (LSVT, Speak Out), swallowing safety, and clear communication to stay connected and confident.
• Occupational Therapy: Support for staying independent in self-care and meaningful daily activities through adaptive tools and home modifications.

Our Approach:

Our therapists exclusively provide one-on-one care to support your recovery and adapt our treatments to your evolving needs. Our therapists design comprehensive and individualized rehabilitation plans, utilizing evidence-based practices to help you regain optimal function.

Every WashU Medicine physical therapist holds a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, with many having board-specialist certifications in specific areas of practice. Our clinicians are trusted experts in evaluating and treating neurologic conditions and are committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care.