Parkinson’s Disease Rehabilitation
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive condition that affects how the brain controls movement. It can lead to symptoms such as slowness of movement, stiffness, changes in balance and walking, and fatigue. Each person’s experience is unique, and therapies are most effective when personalised.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Physiotherapy for Parkinson’s disease focuses on supporting what matters most to you — your mobility, confidence and independence in everyday life. It includes movement practice, balance and gait training, strength-building exercises, and strategies that make daily activities easier and safer.
In addition to my professional experience, my understanding of Parkinson’s disease has been shaped by supporting a close family member through diagnosis. This deepened my appreciation of the practical challenges people and families face and strengthened my commitment to supporting exercise, rehabilitation and nutritional strategies — including approaches that may help manage bowel function — in ways that are realistic for daily life.
I have also contributed to professional education on Parkinson’s disease, speaking to healthcare professionals about balance, movement and rehabilitation, which informs my compassionate, evidence-informed approach.
Support is provided in your own home across Dublin and surrounding areas, allowing therapy to be tailored to your daily environment and routines.
What Research and Guidelines Tell Us
Physiotherapy supports mobility and daily function
Research reviews have shown that physiotherapy can improve walking speed, balance and overall motor function for people living with Parkinson’s disease.
Exercise improves quality of life
Meta-analyses suggest that resistance training, balance work and gait practice can improve motor symptoms and quality of life.
Guidelines recommend access to physiotherapy
The NICE guideline for Parkinson’s disease (updated 2022) recommends access to physiotherapy for people experiencing motor symptoms, balance difficulties or reduced mobility, with personalised rehabilitation to support independence.
What This Means for You
With individual assessment, we can develop a programme that supports your goals — whether that’s improving balance at home, reducing effort when walking outdoors, or maintaining activities you enjoy. Physiotherapy is collaborative and tailored to your needs, rhythm and priorities.
Further Support & Information
Parkinson’s Ireland — Information, local support services and community resources across Ireland
Parkinson’s UK — Evidence-based guidance on living well with Parkinson’s, including exercise and daily management
EOPD - EOPD Ireland is a registered Irish charity, founded by people with Early Onset Parkinson’s for people with Early Onset Parkinson’s.