Parkinson’s Disease Programs
If You’re Battling Parkinson’s Disease, Movement Is Medicine
Parkinson’s Disease is a chronic, progressive central nervous system disorder that results from the loss of dopamine-producing cells deep in the brain. The most common symptoms associated with PD include Tremor, Rigidity, Akinesia/Dyskinesia and Postural Instability (TRAP). For persons with PD, “movement is medicine” and exercise is crucial to combat its effects and promote function and optimal quality of life.
Our Commitment to Support Your Parkinson’s Journey
CPT has physical therapy team members with advanced training and programming options across our five locations. For Parkinson’s, the approach to exercise – including type, amount and intensity of exercise – has specific parameters and recommendations outlined within Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG’s). Our therapists are equipped and prepared to provide the intervention you need. We offer LSVT BIG – a research-based exercise program developed from principles of the effective Parkinson’s specific speech treatment, LSVT LOUD. Several clinicians also hold certifications within the PWR system – “Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery”. Like LSVT BIG, PWR is a functional movement-based program. Both programs target movement intensity, strength, amplitude, flexibility, mobility, endurance, balance and coordination. Our goal is to delay the progression of symptoms and support those living with PD to maintain quality and independence in their lives.
Our Community Programs
Rock Steady Boxing Honesdale
RSB is an international program that enables people with Parkinson’s disease to fight their disease by providing a non-contact boxing-style fitness program that improves their quality-of-life and sense of efficacy and self-worth. Studies also support that intense exercise programs may be “neuro-protective,” working to delay the progression of symptoms. RSB provides encouragement through a ‘tough love’ approach, inspiring maximum effort, speed, strength, balance and flexibility. Boxing works by moving your body in all planes of motion while continuously changing the routine as you progress through the workout.
Classes are offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The program is overseen by Suzanne Atcavage MPT, DPT, NCS. Suzanne is a co-owner of CPT and her father has battled Parkinson’s for more than a decade, further strengthening her commitment to support the needs of the local Parkinson’s community. Classes are offered on a donation-only basis with a recommended donation of $5/class. CPT is committed to this initiative and ensuring that appropriately designed exercise options are accessible. Please contact our Honesdale office at 570-616-1359 to request more information or email us at susieatc@cptrehab.net. Assessments are required before participating, so we will schedule a time to meet you, discuss the program and find the best fit for you! Our program is located at 107 8th Street, Honesdale, PA 18431.
Wayne-Pike Parkinson’s Support Group
CPT is pleased to collaborate with Wayne Memorial Hospital and our Rock Steady Boxing Honesdale program to present a monthly support group for people battling Parkinson’s, their families and care partners. There are many people in our area who are fighting Parkinson’s – you are NOT alone. The support group is a wonderful resource to learn, connect and develop a support network. Meetings are held at Wayne Memorial Hospital on the third Wednesday of each month, at 4:30 PM. For more information, contact our Honesdale office at 570-616-1359 or email Suzanne Atcavage at susieatc@cptrehab.net.
Testimonials
“Thank you Susie, for all that you do for our Parkinson’s community. You are a super hero!
I have been amazed at the difference Rock Steady Boxing has made for me and the other participants in RSB who are living with Parkinson's. Hard to function without it. Exercise at home just does not have the same effect. Am astonished how quickly I have seen people improve who are having trouble even walking at their first session but in just a few sessions they catch up with the rest of us and are almost unrecognizable. The classes are enjoyable with lots
of interaction with the instructor and other participants. And no, we are not punching each other out! The boxing is only one portion of a full body workout involving warm up, core, boxing hitting a bag and stretching. Each class is different and full of surprises! We all look forward to class and try not to miss it!
I had heard of RSB from a friend with Parkinson. When I was later diagnosed, I was able to process this news and what I needed to do and where I could find a place to exercise and learn more. RSB in Honesdale PA has been a home for me and I have made great friends.
Rock Steady Boxing has helped me accept my Parkinson's diagnosis in several ways. I can actively work to slow the progression of the disease, allowing me to feel as though I have some control over it. In addition, the people enabled me to understand that Parkinson's isn't as frightening as it seemed when first diagnosed. As opposed to the common image of what people like Parkinson's look like, everyone, though they may be at different stages, is strong, interesting, and working as a group and individually to combat this disease. No one is giving in, and that is just inspiring to be around - and continues to motivate me.
I joined Rock Steady Boxing at CPT almost 6 years ago. It’s helped me tremendously with Parkinson’s. When I miss class I feel a definite difference. I stiffen up and become rigid. Susie, our boxing coach, is the best. She encourages us and makes us want to do well. I like the people in my class, I consider them friends. I think it’s great!
The sessions are specifically designed for Parkinson's. The sessions are a worthy workout - you pull your weight here. The instructor is always engaging in the same exercises- workouts- step by step with us throughout the hour and half sessions. Its fun and where we all can support one another.
Rock steady boxing empowers me to fight Parkinsons through specialized boxing workouts that improve balance, mobility and voice.
The program has provided hope and connects me with people facing similar challenges. I feel like I am part of a community.
Susie is a great instructor, she is very committed and makes it fun.
Parkinson’s Resources
