Therapies Offer Hope for Parkinson’s Voice and Movement

Parkinson’s disease can severely impact communication and mobility. Fortunately, innovative therapies are emerging to help patients regain their voices and improve their movements, enhancing their overall quality of life.

Early Intervention’s Impact

Speech-language pathologist Cynthia Fox, PhD, CCC-SLP, is slated to present at the Advanced Therapeutics in Movement and Related Disorders (ATMRD) Congress in June 2025. Dr. Fox will review treatments aiding patients in speaking louder and enhancing limb movements. She’ll present recent study findings and offer attendees hands-on exercises.

According to Dr. Fox, the understanding of neuroplasticity has changed the role of speech and physical therapy in managing Parkinson’s. Early interventions can markedly improve speech, motor function, and patient self-assurance.

“It’s been so impressive, the change. When I started in this field 30 years ago, exercise was thought to be potentially harmful… And to see the massive amount of change that’s happened!”

—Cynthia Fox, PhD, CCC-SLP

It is estimated that approximately 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease each year (Parkinson’s Foundation). This highlights the critical need for accessible and effective therapies.

Identifying and Addressing Symptoms

Speech and swallowing difficulties are common in Parkinson’s patients. These deficits can be subtle and often unrecognized. Changes in the acoustic signal of a patient’s voice can be an early biomarker for detection, before a neurologist’s visit.

Dr. Fox recommends routine assessments from speech-language pathologists and physical therapists upon a Parkinson’s diagnosis. Occupational therapists can also help improve daily function.

Real-World Outcomes

An 81-year-old preacher, a patient of a colleague, experienced remarkable improvements through LSVT LOUD and LSVT BIG programs. These therapies, which focus on increasing amplitude, resulted in a return to full duties at his church and a renewed ability to participate in social activities.

“Oh, my voice is alive again. I feel like my old self. I’m confident in my movements and in my communication.”

—Cynthia Fox, PhD, CCC-SLP

These evidence-based programs, along with others, offer renewed hope. Early referrals to these therapies are strongly encouraged.