Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease is a neurodegenerative condition related to the body’s ability to maintain and use dopamine, an important neurotransmitter in the brain. The disease course is highly variable but multiple scientific studies, with more coming out every year, strongly support targeted exercise as the one means of affecting the course of the disease process. Intervention by Physical Occupational and Speech therapists trained in neurorehabilitative techniques has been shown to be effective at all stages of the disease process – from diagnosis throughout the life span – in improving movement and quality of life.
This wealth of research is hinged on the power of neuroplasticity – the ability of the brain to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. Key to this approach is the Therapist performing a comprehensive evaluation to target deficits, and then treating with the correct dose of exercise to make these gains possible.
We truly employ a team approach and employ the most innovation proven treatments to help our clients keep the disease processes at bay and even improve their overall health.
LSVT BIG and LOUD programs
Theracycle
Neubie - an advanced form of neuromuscular electrical stimulation that targets stiffness, gait disorders and pain.
We also work with you to develop specific programs tailored to you to maintain gains made in therapy, after the course of treatment is completed. We host many Parkinson-specific group exercise classes, both by zoom and small socially distanced in-person classes, partnering with the Parkinson Foundation of the National Capital Area. Also recommended is scheduled follow ups for determining if any changes are needed to your program, to keep you engaged and working on any problems that need addressed. We are your partner in fighting PD!
All of our outpatient Physical, Occupational, and Speech therapists on staff have advanced specialty training in treating Parkinson’s Disease. The approach of our team of specialists is something you will not find in a typical outpatient practice!
““Compassion is a verb.” -Thich Nhat Hanh —— I have just completed a third round of physical therapy with Virginian Rehabilitation and Wellness, Inc., to help me stay ahead of a Parkinson’s Disease (PD) diagnosis. I must confess that I really enjoy those PT sessions. The reasons are many. The therapy helps mitigate the effects of my illness. It also affords me a sense of control over the course of the disease. Being able to do something about the PD makes a difference. However, the patient, pleasant, skillful, and compassionate staff at Virginian Rehabilitation and Wellness are the most important element of that practice. They care—and it shows. If certain personality types are drawn to certain professions, then I must conclude that people who just like other people are drawn to physical therapy. I believe that attitude is everything. In my opinion, the staff at VR&W have broken the code on getting attitude right!”