Losing control: Mary K. Kneiser and Parkinson's disease

Parkinson’s disease or PD is the most common movement disorder in the world. The condition has no cure, but physiatrists like Dr. Mary K. Kneiser offer therapies that can help patients cope with the changes brought by the disease, reducing the physical—and partly emotional—pain caused by PD.

From Mary Kneiser

Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and progressive disorder, which means that it lasts a long time and gradually worsens. First named in the 1800s, the disease is characterized by slow movement, shaking, muscle stiffness, and the impairment of balance, and can progress to total paralysis. Though it affects both sexes, it is more commonly seen among males and usually develops in people over the age of 50. In the United States alone, there are over 50,000 detected cases of Parkinson’s disease every year.

From Mary Kneiser

The therapy offered by physiatrists like Dr. Mary K. Kneiser cannot reverse the development of the condition. In fact, no drug or treatment can fix the damage caused by the disease on the brain. However, therapy or “compensatory treatment” can help patients learn new movement techniques and strategies, and the usage of special equipment that aid mobility. Therapists also teach individuals certain exercises that can loosen or return strength to the muscles.

Despite the absence of a cure, PD need not be the end for those who have it. Therapy can greatly reduce the pain caused by Parkinson’s disease. Physiatrists like Dr. Mary K. Kneiser can help patients regain control and be assured of a better quality of life.

From Mary Kneiser

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