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  1. UAMS Health
  2. Treatments and Procedures
  3. Parkinson’s Therapy

Treatment/Procedure: Parkinson’s Therapy

Maintain More of Your Independence

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition that impacts movement, coordination, and daily functioning. While medications and surgical treatments like deep brain stimulation can help manage symptoms, individuals often experience physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges that require specialized rehabilitation. Symptoms that we treat include:

  • LSVT BIG
  • PWR Program
  • Difficulty with walking or balance
  • Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
  • Freezing episodes
  • Muscle rigidity or stiffness
  • Postural changes and instability
  • Fatigue and decreased endurance
  • Fine motor skill challenges (e.g., buttoning shirts, handwriting)
  • Activities of daily living (ADL) limitations
  • Cognitive changes affecting routines or memory

Our occupational and physical therapists are trained in the latest techniques and evidence-based strategies for Parkinson’s care. Whether newly diagnosed or managing advanced symptoms, we provide personalized support to help individuals maintain independence, reduce fall risk, and enhance quality of life.

Targeting Mobility & Safety

  • Gait and Balance Training: Parkinson’s often leads to slower, shuffling steps and postural instability, increasing the risk of falls. Our therapists use evidence-based strategies, including cueing techniques and balance training, to improve safety and confidence during movement.
  • Freezing Episodes: Sudden episodes of immobility (“freezing”) can disrupt walking and increase fall risk. We teach compensatory strategies, rhythmic stepping techniques, and movement sequencing to help individuals overcome freezing and move more fluidly.
  • Rigidity and Flexibility: Stiffness can affect comfort, mobility, and posture. We focus on stretching, mobility drills, and manual therapy to ease muscle tightness and support fluid movement.

Targeting Daily Function

  • Fine Motor Skills: Tasks like handwriting, using utensils, or dressing can become frustrating. Our occupational therapists provide targeted exercises and adaptive tools to improve hand coordination and independence.
  • Energy Conservation & Fatigue Management: PD-related fatigue can limit activity. We help patients learn to pace tasks, prioritize energy, and adapt daily routines for greater stamina and participation.
  • Home Safety & Adaptive Strategies: From fall-prevention education to home modifications and equipment recommendations, we ensure the home environment supports independence and safety.

Contents

  • Areas of Expertise
  • Make an Appointment

Areas of Expertise for Parkinson’s Therapy

Senior woman in occupational therapy session.

Occupational Therapy (Part of Rehabilitation and Therapy Services)

Do you need to regain skills after recovering from an injury? Or are physical and mental changes causing issues in your daily life? …

View Area of Expertise
Physical therapy consultation with senior patient.

Physical Therapy (Part of Rehabilitation and Therapy Services)

At UAMS Health, our physical therapists use the latest equipment, methods and exercises, providing one-of-a-kind treatment plans to adults of all ages.

View Area of Expertise
resistance band exercise treatment

Rehabilitation and Therapy Services

UAMS Health provides the highest quality rehabilitation care by using state-of-the-art technology and evidence-based practices.

View Area of Expertise

Make an Appointment

Request an appointment by contacting a clinic directly or by calling the UAMS Health appointment line at (501) 686-8000.

UAMS Health LogoUAMS HealthUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Mailing Address: 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205
Phone: (501) 686-7000
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