Hello everybody!
Let’s start with something simple, shall we?
Learn five Simple unfreezing techniques for Parkinson’s and enjoy your new found freedom.
Freezing can be an unpleasant symptom of Parkinson’s disease. One out 3 people with Parkinson’s report having episodes where their feet feel “stuck” to the floor when walking, especially when changing surfaces or directions and walking through the threshold of a door. People also experience freezing when attempting to get up from a chair because their seat feels like it is stuck to the chair. Freezing is more likely to occur during multitasking or distractions, and worsens with increased fatigue, anxiety, or depression. Thankfully, there are some very effective strategies for getting unstuck.
The 5 S Method is a great way to get unstuck during a freezing episode.
1st) STOP– Stop fighting your fussy feet. The more you fight it, the worse it gets.
2nd) STAND TALL– Shift your weight back onto your feet until your back is flat.
3rd) SHAKE IT OFF– Calm down.
4th) SHIFT WEIGHT– All the way from one foot to the other until you lean so far that one foot comes unstuck from the ground. Move your hips back and forth if your standing. It you’re sitting, shift your shoulders back and forth.
5th) STEP– Take a huge step forward and strike your heel! If standing from a chair, make a large pushing/ reaching motion with your hands as you rise.
More Bonus Strategies: Remember, it takes practice!
“You are a wonderful teacher. I am glad I had the opportunity to work with you. You are a blessing to PD patients and others who benefit from your lovingly tough classes. Thank you for all you do. Your commitment to helping others is demonstrated continually by your words and actions.”
“Thank you Valerie Waldron Johnson and Balance Therapy for keeping this Parkinson’s person more limber and more symptom free with your knowledge of correct exercises, stretches and cardio to help delay Parkinson’s progress! I look forward to all our sessions!”
“Keep up the great work, Val! I went to you for about two years for chronic vestibular balance and dizziness issues, and now I am so much better and these issues do not hinder my lifestyle. I think your optimism and energy were as important as the vestibular rehab exercises. You were more than just a physical therapist, but a PT/Life Coach! Thanks again for everything!”
“Val is the best! After my cerebellar stroke, my brain lost its way to keep me balanced. I continue to improve with her approach. She helped my brain coordinate with my ears and the rest of my body so that I am much closer to a normal life…. walking without a cane and driving!”
“When the world around you is in a spin… It’s nice to know that someone’s got your back! Thanks for being that someone!”
“Valerie, you are doing great things!!! I wish my dad was your patient. He does not have Parkinson’s, but he has significant balance issues. PT has helped him immensely. I wish that you could evaluate him someday. You are one of the best!!!! I miss working with you!”
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