Parkinson's disease - counter the trembling
Many problems that arise in the course of this disease, cannot only be fixed with medication. An intensive rehabilitation with combination therapy brings about significant improvements. These include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, medical training therapy, speech therapy and neuropsychological care or supportive therapies such as heat treatments, moor or hay flower packs and partial water massages as well as underwater massages. The improvements usually last about six months before the deterioration slowly returns.
The desire for independence
An average of four guests per week who have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease are currently being treated at the Pirawarth Clinic. The most common rehabilitation requirements of Parkinson's guests are in as far as possible achieving independence in daily life, an improvement in gait, gait stability and balance disorder, the body stability and fine motor skills as well as better coordination of the hand (e. g. writing, closing buttons)
On the very day of arrival the personal objectives for rehabilitation are jointly defined and an individual treatment plan is creataed.
Time for the right attitude
In each case, Dr. Gordana Cerkez, specialist doctor of neurology, sees a great advantage in the four-week rehabilitation stay. This period allows the doctor and therapist internal team to deal intensively with the person and their symptoms.
"Our most effective weapons against the disease are the medications in addition to the various rehabilitation therapies.
We do not have diagnostic imaging in the clinic, but we can make close clinical studies or for example with L-dopa tests. Alternatively, it is possible, to administer apomorphine injections or duo-dopa-pumping," said Dr. Cerkez describing the many possibilities. A special swallowing diagnosis is carried out for Parkinson's disease patients with swallowing problems. Should it be necessary, neuropsychological tests are performed or cognitive and psychological aspects of the disease clarified.
Doctors in contact
In a few of the Parkinson's guests at the Pirawarth Clinic there is a suspicion that the Parkinson's diagnosis is not exactly correct or that there is another Parkinson-like disease present. Specific information sharing and consultation with local physicians particularly called for "Deep Brain Stimulation". This method has helped many patients with isolated trembling or who are having trouble with the limbs. "We are looking at suitable persons, regardless of age and discuss this with the responsible resident neurologist. For example a 90 year old lady has already has the operation - which was a success".“
The BIG method is also offered as therapy at the Pirawarth Clinic.A great improvement in speed and range of motion is achieved through the targeted practice of movements.
In addition, we use a treatment known as LSVT LOUD (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment), this is an intensive training of the voice level.
Music therapy is also recommended for Parkinson's sufferers , which is carried out by a music therapist at the clinic. Rhythmic music acts as a strong incentive for movements - the Radetzky-Marsch sets the pace for walking.
Dear colleagues, The entire assessment team at the Pirawarth Clinic is always open for questions and suggestions and for the exchange of information. We are at your disposal should you wish to discuss a special request regarding your patient.