Is PT the Hidden Cure for Depression that Accompanies Parkinson's

According to the Illinois Department of Central Management Services, there are more than 37,570 people living with Parkinson's in Illinois and nearly one million in the United States (State of Illinois, 2024). Worldwide, nearly 10 million people have been diagnosed (Parkinson’s Europe, n.d.). One percent of the population worldwide may seem like a small number but the impact of Parkinson's is huge.

Parkinson's is a neurodegenerative movement disorder caused by a lack of dopamine, which is essential for smooth and coordinated motion/movement. Dopamine is produced in the substantia nigra, a region of the brain that communicates with the basal ganglia to regulate motor control, coordination, and mood. With reduced dopamine levels, the basal ganglia doesn't function properly and is unable to coordinate movement effectively. This can lead to smaller/slower movements, tremors, impaired coordination/balance, stiffness, and overall changes in posture and gait. These are the most common physical symptoms seen in Parkinson's, however there are emotional changes that occur as well that can have significant emotional implications . Emotional changes such as apathy and depression are very common in Parkinson's and can play a role in quality of life. These emotional challenges often stem from the disease's neurological effects, its impact on daily life, and the stress of managing a chronic, progressive condition. Physical therapy can be part of the solution to address both the physical and emotional effects of Parkinson's.

Physical therapy plays a vital role in managing Parkinson's disease (PD) by addressing motor symptoms, improving mobility, and enhancing quality of life. It focuses on maintaining physical function, reducing the risk of falls, and promoting independence as the disease progresses. However, physical therapy doesn't just address the physical symptoms but can also help with the emotional symptoms.

Lauren Charles, a physical therapist from Smith Physical Therapy+ who works with several Parkinson's patients, states “I often see patients come in with depression and they always leave their session feeling better than when they walked into our clinic. I try to find activities they enjoy to help bring them joy by making them smile and laugh”.

According to Charles, “There are studies that show exercise 3x a week can be the same as taking an antidepressant and I see this first-hand with a lot of my patients. Exercise releases happy hormones such as endorphins that help brighten your mood. In addition, getting out of the house and coming to therapy adds to their day and gives them structure, which also helps with depressive symptoms. I encourage my patients to spend time with friends and family, as social withdrawal contributes to their mood. Even physical therapy can be a social event for these patients. Being around positive energy in conjunction with movement is a recipe for success”.

Bottom line is incorporating physical therapy into the treatment of Parkinson’s patients is not just about improving movement—it’s about enhancing quality of life by also addressing the emotional effects of the disease. Physical activity has been shown to boost mood, reduce anxiety, and restore a sense of purpose, offering hope in the face of a challenging diagnosis. By embracing a holistic approach that addresses both the body and the mind, we can empower individuals with Parkinson’s to live fuller, more meaningful lives. It’s time we prioritize the emotional and physical well-being of those battling this disease and recognize the transformative potential of physical therapy as part of comprehensive care.

State of Illinois. (2024, April). Parkinson’s Awareness Month. Illinois Department of Central Management Services. https://cms.illinois.gov/benefits/stateemployee/bewell/awarenessmatters/april2024-parkinsons-awareness.html

Parkinson’s Europe. (n.d.). Statistics. https://parkinsonseurope.org/facts-and-figures/statistics/

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Websites utilized
https://cms.illinois.gov/benefits/stateemployee/bewell/awarenessmatters/april2024-parkinsons-awareness.html#:~:text=In%20Illinois%2C%2037%2C570%20people%20are%20living%20with%20Parkinson's%20disease.
. https://parkinsonseurope.org/facts-and-figures/statistics/#:~:text=Key%20facts%20about%20Parkinson's,-Parkinson's%20is%20named&text=Around%2010%20million%20people%20have,percent%20of%20the%20total%20population.