Parkinson's Rehabilitation
The department provides comprehensive inpatient and outpatient Parkinson's disease rehabilitation and care at VCU Health, Sheltering Arms Institute and the Central Virginia VA Health Care System (CVHCS). We strive to maximize the quality of life for persons with Parkinson's disease through the use of rehabilitation services. Our programs emphasize the enhancement of quality of life by improving functional independence, increasing participation in social activities, preventing further injury and by education in health maintenance.
In 2001, the Veterans Health Administration created six national Parkinson's Disease Research, Education and Clinical Centers (PADRECC) in an effort to improve care for veterans suffering from Parkinson's disease and to pursue a cure for this condition. The centers are located in five other cities in addition to Richmond, Virginia. The PADRECC offers a variety of patient care services, allowing veterans access to innovative strategies and treatment interventions to improve functional ability and life satisfaction as well as opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research intended to lead to more effective treatments and ultimately a cure for Parkinson's disease. In collaboration with VCU, participation in PADRECC clinical research is also available to non-veterans with Parkinson's disease. PADRECC services include, but are not limited to, multidisciplinary assessment and treatment, clinical trials, physician consultation, medical management, surgical interventions, neuropsychological services, physical and occupational therapy, speech therapy, nursing services, telemedicine, caregiver resources, educational materials, community education programs, patient and family programs, and support groups and programs to educate medical professionals.
Services
- Comprehensive evaluations for movement disorders
- Surgical treatment with deep brain stimulation
- Support groups
- Education