PARKINSONS'S DISEASE

PARKINSON'S DISEASE

A 78 year old male with diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. He began use of the Treadwell® System in early March 2014. Due to profound weakness of his ankle muscles in both plantar and dorsi flexion, graded poor for his left ankle and poor/trace for his right ankle, he could perform only 15-20 treds on device with his left, and only 10-12 on his right. He performed one foot at a time, and could repeat the tredling with each foot 3 times. After approximately 8 weeks his numbers increased to 150 treds on the right and 50 on the left. He could accomplish the repitions 3-5 times with each foot. Although not upgradeable, from a manual muscle perspective, he has exhibited decreased lower leg swelling (edema) and a decrease in body weight by 6-8 lbs., presumably from decreased bodily fluid retention. Overall endurance for activities of daily living has increased proportionally. Abnormal muscle tone from Parkinson’s has not been an issue while using the Treadwell® System, often noted when attempting use of bicycles or similar pedal devices with this population. Also, clous is not invoked with the Treadwell® System as is often the case with bicycles or pedal devices. He continues use of the system 1-3 times daily.

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