Greiner Physical Therapy
Parkinson’s in Speonk, NY
Physical Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease in Speonk, NY
If you or a loved one has received a Parkinson’s diagnosis, you likely have questions about what comes next. How will this disease progress? What symptoms may emerge? Can I still live an active, fulfilling life? Although incurable, the skilled physical therapists at Greiner Physical Therapy use customized exercises and techniques to significantly reduce troublesome Parkinson’s symptoms. We empower those with Parkinson’s to regain strength, balance, flexibility, and independence.
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease in Speonk, NY
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder affecting movement and coordination. It results from deteriorating dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. As Parkinson’s advances, a lack of dopamine leads to increased difficulty with:
- Tremors – Involuntary shaking, especially in hands, arms, legs and jaw
- Rigidity – Stiff, inflexible muscles
- Bradykinesia – Slowed movement and reflexes
- Impaired balance – Unsteadiness while standing or walking
If left unchecked, Parkinson’s symptoms will gradually intensify over 5-10 years, leading to more significant mobility impairments, frequent falls, and reduced quality of life. Medications may provide symptom relief, but cannot stop disease progression. The experienced physical therapists at Greiner Physical Therapy utilize customized exercises, stretches, and balance training to keep Parkinson’s symptoms in check. We empower those with Parkinson’s to live full, active lives by maintaining and even improving strength, coordination, and range of motion.
Gavin Vander Schaaf
I had an amazing experience at Greiner Physical Therapy. Seth is incredible and extremely knowledgeable and friendly, and the masseuse I met with was equally as talented and friendly! I highly recommend.
Nancy Kaye-Kirsch
I really appreciate the care and encouragement I receive at Seth Greiner pt. Anthony has been terrific and I am continually having more range of motion and strength in my shoulder after having rotator cuff surgery. Everyone in the office and practice are so nice and supportive.
Key Benefits of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy provides a vital complement to Parkinson’s medication. Our tailored 3-6 month programs deliver measurable improvements in flexibility, mobility, stability, and confidence:
- Improved Movement and Flexibility
Targeted exercises and stretches address muscle stiffness and rigidity. We focus on increasing the range of motion, coordination, and fluidity of movement. This includes gait training, increasing stride length, balance challenges, and amplitude training. - Reduced Risk of Falls
With impaired stability common in Parkinson’s, falls become a major concern. Our balance and coordination drills enhance core strength, proprioception, and reflexes. This leads to better stability for safer walking, transitions, and activity. - Enhanced Strength and Stamina
Custom strength training counteracts muscle weakness exacerbated by Parkinson’s. Building endurance allows for walking farther distances, and getting in and out of chairs with greater ease and confidence during daily activities. - Improved Quality of Life
Our treatment plans enhance mobility and independence in meaningful ways. You’ll have the flexibility, balance, and stamina to remain involved with people and activities important to your mental health and personal fulfillment.
By directly addressing movement limitations, instability, fatigue, and pain, our custom physical therapy empowers those with Parkinson’s to defy expectations. We create active treatment plans designed around your unique challenges and personal goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What activities should someone with Parkinson’s avoid?
While staying active provides benefits, certain high-risk activities should be avoided to prevent falls and injury. These include downhill skiing, rock climbing, surfing, and other sports placing heavy balance demands on the body. Always consult your physical therapist before taking up new activities.
What happens if Parkinson’s goes untreated?
Without proper medication and therapy, Parkinson’s progresses much more rapidly. Symptoms like tremors, rigidity, and loss of voluntary movement control worsen quickly. This also hastens mobility impairments and instability raising fall risk. Treating symptoms early is key to maintaining independence and quality of life.
Can you fully recover from Parkinson’s?
Unfortunately, there is presently no cure for Parkinson’s disease. However, through diligent treatment, you can significantly minimize symptoms, and live a fulfilling life for years following diagnosis. Physical therapy plays a key role in recovering strength, flexibility, and stability to remain active.
What does early-stage Parkinson’s look like?
In the early stages, symptoms may be subtle. Look for hand tremors, masked facial expressions, muffled speech, cramped handwriting, slight balance issues, and reduced arm swing when walking. Medications and therapy at this point can help minimize symptoms before they intensify.
Our Parkinson’s Specialty Team
Greiner Physical Therapy’s physical therapy team has years of experience successfully treating Parkinson’s patients. Dr. Anthony Fuentes, Physical Therapist leads our treatment philosophy centered on compassion, encouragement, and maximizing quality of life following a Parkinson’s diagnosis.
Start Reclaiming Movement Today
If you or someone you love has received a Parkinson’s diagnosis, don’t wait to get treatment. Our physical therapists create customized plans to reverse mobility limitations and restore independence. We maximize strength, balance, and coordination early on for better long-term outcomes. Call our office or request an appointment online to have your questions answered during a complimentary assessment. Our staff looks forward to helping you or your loved one regain movement and live life to the fullest, in spite of Parkinson’s disease.
About The Author
Seth Greiner is a PT specializing in Parkinson’s disease, Neurological Rehab & Physical Therapy. With years of experience in the field, Seth Greiner has dedicated their career to helping patients achieve their maximum physical potential and improve their quality of life. Currently practicing at Greiner Physical Therapy in Speonk, NY, Seth Greiner employs a patient-centered approach, combining cutting-edge techniques and personalized care plans to address a wide range of physical conditions.