Newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s?
Here’s what you should know

Written By Dr. Katie Nathan PT, DPT, NCS

I know you’re undergoing a change. And let’s be honest, change can have its ups and downs. I want you to know you’re not walking this path alone. I am here to support and help you.

Knowledge is power. If you arm yourself with knowledge about Parkinson’s from the start, you will better know how to help yourself.

I have worked with countless clients with Parkinson’s and have compiled information and knowledge that my clients wished they knew when first diagnosed.

1. Disease progression- Educate yourself

Everyone’s disease progression is different. Idiopathic Parkinson’s disease takes a long time to progress. Average progression is 20-30 years in your lifetime, meaning you have so much time to live life to its fullest. Also, always remember that exercise has the power to change the progression of your Parkinson’s for the better. During your disease course, we can move and exercise together to help you be your healthiest self!

2. Providers you might need

Establish care with a neurologist. This type of physician knows more specifically about Parkinson’s. If you have one available in your area, I recommend a movement disorder neurologist. They have undergone additional training to help you with your Parkinson’s disease.

Establish care with rehabilitation specialists including a physical therapist, occupational therapist, and speech pathologist. You might not need them for some time, but it’s good to know the rehab specialists in your area that treat people with Parkinson’s. To establish care with these providers you often need a referral from your physician.

These rehab specialists will screen you for discipline-specific needs. For example, a physical therapist can help you address your stiffness, an occupational therapist can help you with your hand tremor, and a speech therapist can help you improve your vocal production.

3. Multiple benefits of exercise and movement

We all know that exercise is beneficial, but it is extremely beneficial when you have Parkinson’s. Exercise has been shown to be the number one consistent intervention to slow disease progression. Yes, you heard that correctly!

If you’re interested in some intellectual reading about this, click the links below for research articles about how exercise helps those with Parkinson’s:

4. Diet and Nutrition

Establishing consistent and healthy eating habits is key to managing the disease progression of Parkinson’s. Poor nutrition can actually contribute to some of the most common complaints people with Parkinson’s experience like constipation, joint pain, and poor sleep quality. If you are interested in learning about foods that have been linked to a reduced rate of Parkinson’s progression click this link.

5. Support Groups

Talk with others that can more closely relate to your experiences. Often my clients will report how comforting it is that others are experiencing the same bodily changes. Make friends, grow as a person, and stay informed.

The Parkinson’s community is wide-reaching. This community is waiting to support you and your family. Also, there are specific support groups for loved ones and caretakers. For more information on local and national support groups click this link.

To gain more information and insight about Parkinson’s, let Moved by Movement have the privilege of helping you!