Mind and Mobility

I was referred to physical therapy for a left rotator cuff tear. I also have an inherited neurological disease that affects my balance, ability to walk, climb stairs, etc. (a late-​onset form of hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy — HMSN).
Before making an appointment, I went to Mind & Mobility to ask what kind of physical therapy they provide (e.g., sports-​oriented; rehabilitation; etc.). I was told that they have an expert in treating Parkinson’s disease and similar movement disorders. That was just what I need.
On my first appointment, I was evaluated for both my left shoulder rotator cuff tear and also for my neurological disorder (balance, walking, etc.). I was told that the occupational therapist would be working with me for the shoulder problem, and the physical therapist would work with me on neurological problems. They contacted my doctor to get a referral for physical therapy for falls, balance and related problems. I have been working with them for 12 weeks now.
The physical therapist, Lenny, is a miracle worker in my opinion. I have never met anyone who understood so much about the Parkinsonism-​like movement problems that I have. Lenny worked with me in so many ways to improve my balance, walking, turning, climbing stairs, getting out of chairs without using my arms to push off, and skills for fall prevention. One day I told him that I hadn’t been able to run in 5 years. He said he could teach me very easily, and he did! He walked along side me, holding my left hand and the back of my belt, and began walking faster, and then, almost as though we were dancing, he had me running beside him. I’m a 68-​year-​old very reserved man, but I started crying when I realized that I was actually running. I never thought my body would be able to do that again.
I think anyone with a movement disorder related to Parkinson’s disease, parkinsonism, stroke, or other impediments to normal body movement should make at least one visit for evaluation with Lenny at the Oakland Park (Fort Lauderdale) site, or with Mateo in the Boca Raton facility. These people really know so much more about coordinating the entire body than do sports-​oriented physical therapists.