Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Disease is a chronic and progressive movement disorder, involving the malfunction of vital nerve cells in the brain. Parkinson’s primarily affects nerve cells that control movement and coordination, sometimes causing the person to lose normal movement.
While symptoms and experiences vary from person to person, the primary motor signs of Parkinson’s Disease include the following:
- Tremor of the hands, arms, legs, jaw and face
- Slowness of movement
- Stiffness of the limbs and trunk
- Impaired balance and coordination
The Ozzie Smith Centers of Springfield physical therapist, Jeremy Graddy, is certified to lead the LSVT Big Program – a special protocol designed to improve a person’s motor control and movements. When a person enrolls in the Big Program, they can expect to come to The Ozzie Smith Centers of Springfield 4 days a week for 4 weeks. Each session will last 1 hour. Jeremy leads the patient through a series of movements, gentle exercises, and activities designed to engage the affected areas of the brain.
Many patients see improvement in walking, balance, and mobility after completing the Big Program. Patients say they are able to go about their daily activities with more confidence and speed!
A Parkinson’s disease diagnosis is NOT required to participate in the Big Program. The Ozzie Smith Centers of Springfield encourage patients to begin the Big Program as soon as possible after talking with your doctor about your symptoms. Insurance covers this program just as they would cover a physical therapy visit.
To learn more contact us or at 417-635-1185.