What is Parkinson's Disease?
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects the brain's ability to control movement. It develops when the cells responsible for producing dopamine gradually become damaged, leading to changes in movement, balance and coordination.
Symptoms vary from person to person but commonly include slower movements (bradykinesia), muscle stiffness (rigidity), tremor, reduced balance, walking difficulties and changes in posture. Many people also experience fatigue, reduced confidence, freezing of gait, reduced arm swing and difficulties with everyday tasks.
Although Parkinson's disease is a progressive condition, physiotherapy plays a vital role in helping people remain active, maintain independence and improve their quality of life throughout all stages of the condition.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapy is recommended as part of the long-term management of Parkinson's disease and can help you maintain mobility, confidence and independence. At Greenacre Physio, we develop personalised rehabilitation programmes based on your symptoms, goals and stage of the condition.
Treatment may include:
- Improving walking speed and quality
- Balance and falls prevention training
- Strength and flexibility exercises
- Strategies to reduce freezing of gait
- Postural correction and mobility exercises
- Functional movement practice for everyday activities
- Endurance and cardiovascular exercise
- Advice on remaining active and exercising safely
- Home exercise programmes tailored to your needs
Our goal is to help you move more efficiently, remain as independent as possible and continue doing the activities that matter most to you.
Common Parkinson's Symptoms We Treat
- Slower walking and reduced mobility
- Balance problems and falls
- Freezing of gait
- Muscle stiffness (rigidity)
- Tremor affecting movement
- Reduced arm swing
- Difficulty turning or changing direction
- Postural changes
- Reduced confidence with mobility
- Fatigue and reduced endurance
- Difficulties with everyday activities
Why Choose Greenacre Physio?
At Greenacre Physio, our clinicians have extensive experience treating people living with Parkinson's disease through specialist NHS neurological services and private practice. We understand the unique challenges associated with Parkinson's and recognise that every individual's symptoms and goals are different.
Our rehabilitation programmes are evidence-based and individually tailored, focusing on maintaining mobility, improving confidence and supporting long-term independence. Whether you have recently been diagnosed or have been living with Parkinson's for many years, we will work with you to develop a rehabilitation programme that fits your lifestyle and goals.
Appointments are available at our Essex and Cambridge clinics, as well as through home visits and virtual consultations, making specialist neurological physiotherapy accessible wherever you are.
What to Expect
Your first appointment will include a comprehensive assessment of your mobility, walking, balance, posture, strength, flexibility and functional activities. We will also discuss how Parkinson's disease affects your daily life and identify your personal rehabilitation goals.
Following your assessment, we will develop a personalised treatment plan designed to maximise your movement, maintain your independence and support long-term physical activity. Your programme will be regularly reviewed and progressed as your needs change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can physiotherapy slow the progression of Parkinson's disease?
Physiotherapy cannot stop the progression of Parkinson's disease, but regular exercise and targeted rehabilitation have been shown to help maintain mobility, reduce falls, improve walking and support independence throughout the condition.
When should I start physiotherapy?
It is beneficial to begin physiotherapy as early as possible after diagnosis. Early intervention can help establish good movement habits and maintain strength, flexibility and confidence.
How often should I have physiotherapy?
The frequency of treatment depends on your individual goals and symptoms. Following your assessment, we will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can self-refer directly to Greenacre Physio, although we also accept referrals from GPs, neurologists and other healthcare professionals.
Book an Appointment
If you are living with Parkinson's disease and would like specialist neurological physiotherapy, we're here to help. Book an appointment at one of our Essex or Cambridge clinics, arrange a home visit, or schedule a virtual consultation with one of our experienced neurological physiotherapists.