Parkinson's
mobility tips & videos
I am a physical therapist who has worked with people with Parkinson’s (PWP) for 29 years. Now that I am retired I was thinking about the presentations I had put together over the years. I didn’t want to see them go to waste but didn’t know how to share them. As luck would have it, I was attending an online physical therapy course and they presented very informative yet fun video clips. This class has invigorated me to create ‘bite size’ educational modules. I hope to complete this project by end of 2023.
The ‘Learning Module’ tab contains the introduction of the ‘role of physical therapy’ in Parkinson’s. It also encompasses instructional videos covering all aspects of ‘walking’ and how you can improve. Look at the dropdown lists in each category to address your needs more specifically. Causes of ‘balance’ problems can vary from one person to the next. Part 1 of the balance series addresses the 10 most common causes I have seen in individuals. Balance problems can also result from unsteadiness while standing (postural instability) and low blood pressure problems (orthostatic hypotension). These areas are addressed separately under the balance tab. Next is the ‘Walkers’ tab which includes how to set up your 2 wheeled walker, how to use a walker/rollator, how to select a rollator that best suits your needs and finally how a caregiver can assist someone with walking. Lastly ‘Uncommon Postural Changes’ addresses postural changes such as drop head posture and camptocormia. They describe the characteristics of those postures and things you can do for comfort and mobility.
The ‘Transfer’ tab contains ‘step by step’ instructional videos on ‘how to’ perform bed mobility, car transfers, chair transfers and floor transfers. Look for the drop down in each category. There are instructions for individuals with Parkinson’s who are able to maneuver on their own. Additional videos are presented more specifically for caregivers to minimize strain. Search for what you need and what applies to your situation. Because these methods often need to be individualized with the guidance of a physical therapist, the methods shown may need to be further adjusted but will give you the basics in the meantime.
