Atypical Parkinsonism

Atypical Parkinsonism, also known as Parkinson’s Plus Syndromes, refers to neurologic conditions that share symptoms with Parkinson’s disease (PD) but progress differently and often respond less to traditional Parkinson’s treatments. These conditions require a specialized rehabilitation approach to manage symptoms, maintain mobility, and improve daily function.

4 Types of Atypical Parkinsonism

1. Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) A progressive disorder affecting movement, balance, and autonomic functions (blood pressure, digestion, bladder control).

Key symptoms:

  • Severe balance issues

  • Slurred speech

  • Low blood pressure

  • Urinary problems

Subtypes

  • MSA-P (Parkinsonian type): Resembles PD with rigidity and slow movement.

  • MSA-C (Cerebellar type): Affects coordination and speech.

2. Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) A condition affecting eye movement, balance, and posture.

Key symptoms:

  • Early and severe falls (most commonly backwards)

  • Difficulty moving eyes up/down

  • Speech and swallowing problems

  • Hallmark feature: Difficulty looking down, leading to high fall risk.

3. Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD/CBS) A rare neurodegenerative disease that leads to asymmetric movement impairment and cognitive decline.

Key symptoms:

  • Stiffness in one limb

  • Involuntary movements

  • Difficulty with coordination

  • Speech impairment

  • Unique feature: "Alien limb phenomenon" (where a limb moves involuntarily).

4. Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) A disorder that combines Parkinsonian movement symptoms with cognitive decline and hallucinations.

Key symptoms:

  • Fluctuating attention

  • Visual hallucinations

  • Parkinsonian tremors

  • Sleep disturbances

  • Difference from PD: Dementia symptoms appear early while in PD, cognitive changes occur later.

Choose Your Plan

Online Exercise Program

$49.99/month

  • 7 DAY FREE TRIAL!

  • Personalized Schedule: Follow along on our app with a structured schedule and clear instructions.

  • Video Exercise Classes: Have the option to pick from pre-recorded exercise classes at various levels

  • Focused Exercises: Improve walking, cognition, strength, and balance.

  • Access to Experienced Instructors: Ask questions to a physical therapist with expertise in Atypical PD care.

  • *Recommended for individuals with the ability to stand

No contracts - cancel anytime

Atypical Parkinsons Program (1-on-1)

Each Session 60 minutes

$200= 1 session
$700/month= 4 sessions per month

$1,300/month= 8 sessions per month

  • What It Is: Personalized in-home physical therapy sessions focused on improving walking, balance, mobility, strength, and functional independence.

  • Who It’s For: Individuals at any stage of their journey, from newly diagnosed to many years out.

  • What’s Included: Personalized program that can include: gait retraining, balance recovery, mobility, equipment ordering, and pain management.

No contracts - cancel anytime

*May be covered under insurance

How Exercise & Therapy Can Help

Because Atypical Parkinson’s conditions progress more rapidly than PD, our therapy focuses on:

  • Fall Prevention & Balance Training – To reduce early and severe falls.

  • Gait Training & Mobility Support – To improve walking and prevent shuffling/freezing.

  • Postural Control & Core Strength – To combat stiffness and instability.

  • Assistive Device Training – Helping patients use walkers, canes, and wheelchairs safely.

  • Referral to Swallowing & Speech Support – Refer to Speech Therapy to address difficulties common in PSP, MSA, and CBD.

  • Adaptive Strategies for Daily Activities – To enhance independence at home.

Choose Your Plan

Online Exercise Program

$49.99/month

  • 7 DAY FREE TRIAL!

  • Personalized Schedule: Follow along on our app with a structured schedule and clear instructions.

  • Video Exercise Classes: Have the option to pick from pre-recorded exercise classes at various levels

  • Focused Exercises: Improve walking, cognition, strength, and balance.

  • Access to Experienced Instructors: Ask questions to a physical therapist with expertise in SCI care.

  • *Recommended for individuals with the ability to stand

No contracts - cancel anytime

Atypical Parkinsons Program (1-on-1)

Each Session 60 minutes

$200= 1 session
$700/month= 4 sessions per month

$1,300/month= 8 sessions per month

  • What It Is: Personalized in-home physical therapy sessions focused on improving walking, balance, mobility, strength, and functional independence.

  • Who It’s For: Individuals at any stage of their journey, from newly diagnosed to many years out.

  • What’s Included: Personalized program that can include: gait retraining, balance recovery, mobility, equipment ordering, and pain management.

No contracts - cancel anytime

*May be covered under insurance

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