In one of our articles, we discussed Freezing of Gait by giving you an overview on this complex (though very common) symptom and reporting the severe impact that it can have on patient’s daily life.
Although standard treatments for Parkinson’s Disease (pharmacological, surgical, and physical therapy) might reduce the occurrence and severity of Freezing episodes, indeed, many patients develop therapy-resistant forms of FOG – Especially at advanced stages of the disease. We have collected in this article some useful advice that will help you to prevent the onset of new FOG episodes and a series of tips to keep in mind to overcome a crisis faster.
How to reduce the occurrence of Freezing of Gait
THE IMPORTANCE OF A PERSONALIZED REHABILITATION PLAN
Freezing of Gait is a challenging symptom because it can be triggered by different situations and conditions that are unique for each patient. Although general treatments do not always turn into efficient management of FOG, developing a personalized strategy that helps the patient to recognize and overcome new freezing episodes is often one of the most favorable approaches. If you have recurrent freezing episodes, you should talk to your physiotherapist or occupational therapist: a medical professional can help you identify your specific triggers and to develop smart strategies to reduce their impact in the context of your daily activities. Remember that cognitive training is as important for patients affected by freezing as physical exercise: ensure adequate cognitive challenges are integrated into your rehabilitation program.
KEEP THE STRESS AWAY
Several scientific studies identified a connection between the level of perceived stress in patients with Parkinson’s Disease and the incidence of Freezing of Gait episodes. Reducing stress through non-pharmacological therapeutic approaches (such as mindfulness or mild physical exercise) could thus help control the occurrence of FOG. Furthermore, these activities are known to be extremely beneficial for a number of other non-motor symptoms typically associated with Parkinson’s Disease, such as anxiety, depression, and apathy. Definitely worth giving a try!
PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR POSTURE AND STABILITY
Wearing uncomfortable shoes might contribute to triggering the Freezing of Gait. Especially when walking out of home, choose supportive and well-fitting shoes to prevent the occurrence of FOG episodes and to increase your stability. If possible, adjust your posture periodically to keep your feet wide – Especially when turning, which typically triggers FOG in sensitive patients. If you don’t feel safe walking for long distances alone, consider the idea of using some walking aids (like a pair of walking canes or a rollator): these instruments are good allies in preventing falls!
DISCOVER HOW GONDOLA AMPS THERAPY CAN SUPPORT YOUR REHABILITATION JOURNEY
And if you realize that an episode of FOG is ongoing….?
First, don’t panic: you can use several tricks to overcome an ongoing Freezing of Gait episode. Most of them are simple strategies that shift your attention away from the main cause of freezing (the trigger) and help your brain to focus on the important actions needed to restore normal walking. For example:
WALK ON THE SPOT AND SWING YOUR ARMS
Walking is a rhythmic action, and every occurrence that breaks your rhythm can potentially trigger FOG. If you block in front of a closed door or can’t start walking again after you stop for any reason, just try to pull your legs up one at a time, marching on the spot. This simple action will help you regain fluidity and start walking again – If your hands are free, you can also swing your arms while standing still.
COUNT OR KEEP THE RHYTHM OF THE PACE
As you walk, count or repeat left, right, left, right while staying focused on the action. Take your next step at a specific point on the floor. To unblock your feet during a FOG episode, you can try to say loud in your head, “1, 2, 3, GO!” and take a big step forward on “GO.” Listening to some music is a great way to naturally walk on a regular rhythm: bring your earphones with you each time you go out for a walk!
SHIFT YOUR ATTENTION ON VISUAL CUES
ìIf you identify critical places at your home (like narrow spaces or doorways) that often work as triggers for FOG, place some colored tape on the floor next to them – for example, by tracing a straight line that you can easily follow while walking. This trick will make it easier for your brain to focus on the action of walking and will unfreeze your feet if they get stuck on the floor. During a FOG episode outside your home, you can even try to imagine that there’s such a straight line drawn on the floor – Once again, the important point here is to help your brain avoid distractions and focus on the goal of walking. Do you use a walking cane? Try to paint its tip with bright color and use it as a reference for your attention whenever you feel that you’re about to freeze: relying on such external visual cues will help you to overcome the FOG episode.
