Journal of the American Medical Association · 1956 · 14 citations · 2 references
Neuromuscular CoordinationParalysis AgitansMotor ControlCerebral PalsyOrthopaedic SurgeryExercise RehabilitationKinesiologyExerciseChronic Musculoskeletal ConditionApplied PhysiologyNeurorehabilitationRehabilitation EngineeringMotor DisorderPhysical MedicineHealth SciencesPhysical FitnessRehabilitationPhysical TreatmentHand TherapyMovement DisordersPhysical TherapyProgressive DisabilityExercise PhysiologyHuman MovementNeurologic Physical TherapyMedicineNeuromusculoskeletal DisorderMuscular Rigidity
• The prevention of progressive disability in a patient with paralysis agitans is dependent to a great extent on the patient's ability and desire to be active. The muscular rigidity, discouragement, and even depression so characteristic of this illness are not conducive to activity. The recent emphasis on medical and surgical therapy, which often are themselves palliative, has obscured the importance and often prevented the use of continuing exercise in the treatment of this disease. Specific exercises prescribed by the physician to prevent contractures and to increase speed of the extremities, along with correction of posture and training in gait, contribute much to the treatment of this disease. In addition, it is necessary to urge the patient to continue to perform the activities of daily living, as well as other tasks requiring use of his muscles, to prevent the deleterious effects of inactivity.
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