Posture and Gait: How Physiotherapy Can Help People with Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition that impacts movement control, often leading to changes in posture and gait. These changes can significantly affect mobility and balance and can increase the risk of falls. Physiotherapy offers valuable support in managing these symptoms, helping individuals with Parkinson’s improve their movements, and regain independence and confidence. 

• Improving Gait: Parkinson’s commonly causes shuffling steps and reduced arm swing. Physiotherapy aims to improve walking patterns, increase step length, and restore walking speed. Strategies like cueing (using visual or auditory cues) and walking aids can help manage freezing episodes, allowing smoother, safer and more coordinated movement.. 

• Balance and Fall Prevention: The risk of falling is heightened in Parkinson’s due to small and slow movements; poor balance; and in coordination. Physiotherapists design exercises to improve movement quality and specifically target balance deficits, which helps reduce the likelihood of falls and enhances overall stability. 

• Postural Correction: People with Parkinson’s often experience a stooped posture. Physiotherapists use specific exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the spine, helping to correct posture and reduce discomfort. This can also alleviate tension in the neck and shoulders, improving overall body alignment. 

• Personalised Treatment Plans: Every individual with Parkinson’s is different, and Physiotherapists should provide tailored strategies that address specific needs. These plans focus on maintaining mobility, improving flexibility, and promoting independence, regardless of disease progression. 

Amanda O’Neill, Founder and Physiotherapist at Coffs Neuro Physio, shares, “Parkinson’s disease affects each person differently, but with the right physiotherapy and exercise, we can make a real difference. Our aim is to empower people to move more comfortably, reduce falls risk, and maintain independence as long as possible.” 

At Coffs Neuro Physio, we provide physiotherapy services designed to support individuals with Parkinson’s disease. If you or a loved one is experiencing difficulties with posture or gait, contact us to learn more about how physiotherapy can help improve mobility and enhance quality of life.