Persons with Parkinson's
Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) is an advanced form of music therapy that uses
research based techniques to treat the brain using rhythm and music. There
have been clinical trials investigating how rhythm affects the brain and develops
new or alternate neurologic pathways and connections in the brain.
"The timing aspects of music, through its rhythmic components, have a strong
influence on temporal regulation of movement. Rhythm may be best described
as a sensory timer that utilizes the physiologically very sensitive connections
between the auditory and motor systems in the brain to influence time control in
movement."(Rhythm, Music and the Brain. Thaut, Michael. 2005.)
NMT can be used to benefit persons living with Parkinson’s disease. It utilizes
the timing cue of rhythm to retrain the speed of specific movements, whether that
is walking, gross or fine motor tasks.
"It was found that PD patients were able to synchronize their step patterns to
metronomic and musical-rhythmic cues in time coupling ranges to a degree very
similar to healthy elderly persons (McIntosh et al. 1997)." (Rhythm, Music and the Brain. Thaut, Michael. 2005.)
Practical examples of how NMT can be used with Parkinson’s are: maintaining
strength and motor control, improving breath control and speech, finding
strategies for alleviating stereotypical symptoms of Parkinson’s such as freezing,
difficulty with transitions and voluntary movement.
NMTSA offers differing programs for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease
In the NMT Movement and Music Group, rhythm, music and instruments will all
be utilized; focusing on maintaining strength, flexibility and endurance of muscle
groups and providing opportunities for functional movements of upper and lower
extremities. Staff and volunteers will be available for safety and to monitor the
effectiveness of each exercise. A variety of percussion instruments will be used,
which have been shown to be easy to play and extremely motivating. Songs will
be chosen by the therapists, but participants will be able to engage and share
preferences and ideas for future musical choices.
Following the group, participants can receive a free NMT gait assessment
looking at whether treatment would be beneficial to improve their gait or
other specific needs. If successful, an Individual Treatment program will be
recommended.
In the Individual Treatment programs, therapists work with the client and
family to determine the barriers to the individual’s goals and lifestyle. Then,
accommodations and strategies for retraining the brain to alleviate or remove
those difficulties will be developed for use in the home, community, or job
settings.
NMT Movement and Music Group Schedule
Time: Wednesdays 9:00-10:30a
Location: NMTSA's Clinic, 2702 N 3rd St, Suite 1000, Phoenix
Cost: $5.00/person
Download a printable flyer here
note: Pre-registration is required. Please call 602-840-6410 ext 2 to save your spot. We will be adding groups in the future, so please call if you are interested but unable to
attend this group.
This group is made possible by a grant recently awarded to NMTSA from the Genworth Foundation.
Contact us for more information
NMT can benefit persons with Parkinson’s to different support groups, staff and
organizations throughout the valley. Call and leave your contact information
at 602-840-6410 ext #2 or e-mail info@nmtsa.org for more information or to
schedule a presentation or consultation.