Living with Parkinson’s Disease: How Physical Therapy Helps

According to the World Health Organization, more than 6 million people worldwide live with Parkinson’s disease, and that number may rise to 13 million by 2040. While medications are important, physical therapy for Parkinson’s disease plays a vital role in maintaining mobility, strength, and independence.

Interview with patient Alexandra and her therapist Eva Krecisz, PT

Early Symptoms and Diagnosis

Interviewer: Alexandra has been your patient for two years. When did you first notice symptoms that might indicate Parkinson’s disease?

Eva: She initially came to us with severe back pain. During her first visit, I noticed she was walking hunched over and shuffling her feet. These could be signs of developing Parkinson’s, but given Alexandra’s back issues and age, they weren’t conclusive. She didn’t show the typical hand tremor that often appears early in the disease.

Recognizing the First Signs of Parkinson’s

Interviewer: Is it easy to miss the first symptoms?

Eva: Very easy – especially if a patient doesn’t have the classic tremor. The disease develops slowly. Early signs can be subtle: less facial expression, one hand not swinging while walking, or a characteristic “shuffling” gait. When Alexandra returned for another issue months later, I noticed mild bradykinesia, a slowing of movements common in early Parkinson’s. I advised her to discuss this with her primary care doctor.

Patient Experience: Alexandra’s Story

Interviewer: Alexandra, what did you notice back then?

Alexandra: I was getting tired more easily, and my joints hurt, but I assumed it was just aging. When I fell and hit my head, but blamed my knees. I didn’t have tremors, so Parkinson’s never crossed my mind. During a session at P D Rehab, my therapist Kris, asked me to write something. I started with big letters, but they quickly got smaller and smaller. Kris told me this is micrographia, a textbook symptom of the disease.

Understanding Micrographia

Eva: Micrographia is common. Patients begin writing normally, but letters shrink and become difficult to read. They often struggle with spacing and letter formation. Seeing Alexandra’s writing confirmed she needed a specialist.

Confirming the Diagnosis

Alexandra: I saw a neurologist at Northwestern Hospital. The doctor observed my movements and facial expression and diagnosed Parkinson’s even before tests. Tests confirmed it. I started medication and later traveled to Poland, where I experienced dizziness, weakness, and a couple of falls.

Physical Therapy and Life with Parkinson’s

Alexandra: I feel much better thanks to regular exercise; I visit P D Rehab three times a week, exercise at home, and walk daily. It’s easier to get up from a chair or climb stairs. I still experience some dizziness, tremors, and balance problems, but overall, I feel stronger and more confident.

Cognitive Symptoms

Eva: Memory problems can occur, though not everyone develops dementia. Severity varies. Early and consistent rehabilitation combined with medical care is key.

Expert Advice for Parkinson’s Patients

Eva: Movement is everything. At every stage, staying active is essential. Specialized physical therapy teaches safe exercises to improve strength, posture, and coordination. Additional beneficial activities include:

• Regular walking
• Dancing
• Yoga
• Gentle stretching or Tai Chi

Conclusion: Living Well with Parkinson’s

Alexandra’s story shows the importance of recognizing early symptoms and beginning treatment promptly. With the right combination of physical therapy, movement, and medical care, mobility, balance, and quality of life can be preserved for many years.