Parkinson's disease is a slowly progressing neurologic disorder experienced by over 1,000,000 people in the United States. It is more prevalent in males than in females. Although the exact cause of the disease is unknown, the symptoms are the result of the reduction of an important brain neurotransmitter called dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical critical to human movement. It enables us to coordinate our muscles smoothly, precisely and without unwanted movement.

The cardinal symptoms of Parkinson's disease are tremors or shaking, particularly in the hands;
slowness of movement; stiffness, including reduced facial expressions; and, often in the later stages, very poor balance. General muscle weakness and reduced endurance, due to decreased activity, are also problems with Parkinson's disease.

At BAPTIST HEALTH Rehabilitation Institute we believe that, although there is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease, there are therapeutic interventions, along with proper medications, which can improve the quality of life for individuals afflicted with this disease. Each patient will receive a variety of rehabilitation services and interventions specific to their individual needs.

The following are among the special programs offered at BHRI:

Mobility Training  Speech and Voice Training  Swallowing Program		Self-Care Training  Discharge Planning and Home Care  Outpatient Therapy
Excellence in Parkinson's Care Accreditation

Patients may be referred to BHRI by a physician, family member, friend or self-referral. A screening examination may be conducted prior to admission. The cost of treatment is covered as any hospitalization by Medicare, Medicaid, Workers' Compensation and private insurance carriers. For additional information on how to begin the admission process, or to schedule a tour, please call 501-202-7011 or 1-888-B-A-P-T-I-S-T.