Music Therapy

At our Arden-Arcade last Friday we listened to  board certified music therapist Rachel Firchau from McConnell Music Therapy Services describe what Music Therapy is and how it can benefit people with Parkinson's Disease (PWP).  Ms. Firchau first used some lovely rhythm instruments she had brought along She showed how music through rhythm can teach anticipation, timing, and selective listening skills.

She also showed a video demonstrating the effectiveness of music theory on consumers with gait problems such as mine.  A Person with Parkinson's who attempts to walk while listening to a drum or some other rhythm instrument will find his gate synchronizing to the instrument.  A properly adjusted instrument tends to smooth out gait, eliminate freezing, and reduce hip contortion.  And the improvement in gait is likely to persist, remaining with the patient for a week to 10 days.  I found it similar to the "marching stride" encouraged by my physical therapist.