Parkinson’s Disease and the Power of Movement with Dr. Han Nguyen, PT, DPT, NCS

Did you know that exercise is the only non-medication treatment proven to slow Parkinson’s progression? In this powerful episode, Dr. Han Nguyen explains how movement—done right—can change the lives of people living with Parkinson’s.

Episode Summary:

In Episode #123 of the Get Healthy Tampa Bay Podcast, Dr. Kerry Reller is joined by Dr. Han Nguyen, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and board-certified neurologic clinical specialist. Together, they take a deep dive into understanding Parkinson’s disease and why exercise is a cornerstone of effective long-term care.

From early diagnosis to advanced treatment options like deep brain stimulation, Dr. Nguyen offers a compassionate, evidence-based look at how patients and families can navigate this neurodegenerative disease—and why movement, at any stage, is powerful medicine.

Key Takeaways:

• What is Parkinson’s?
  A progressive neurodegenerative disease primarily affecting movement but also tied to non-motor symptoms like fatigue, mood changes, digestive issues, and vision problems.

• Early Signs & Diagnosis:
  Slowness of movement (bradykinesia), stiffness, postural instability, and resting tremors are classic signs. Diagnosis is typically clinical, but tools like the DaTscan can support it.

• Who’s at Risk:
  Older age (60+), male gender, and environmental exposure (like pesticides) are risk factors—but younger onset is becoming more common.

• Why Exercise Matters:
  Exercise, particularly high-intensity training, is the only known method to slow disease progression aside from medication. It also improves dopamine production, mood, digestion, and sleep.

• It's Never Too Late:
  Even those in assisted living or advanced stages of Parkinson’s benefit from movement—whether seated, standing, or with caregiver assistance.

• Team-Based Approach:
  Physical, occupational, and speech therapy work together with neurology and primary care to provide holistic care.

• Local Resources Matter:
  Programs like Rock Steady Boxing, LSVT, PWR! Moves, Neuro Challenge, and PD Life offer specialized support in the Tampa Bay area and beyond.

Conclusion:

If you or someone you love is navigating Parkinson’s disease, there’s hope—and it starts with movement. Early diagnosis, expert therapy, and structured exercise programs can significantly improve quality of life. No matter the stage, it’s never too late to move your body and feel better.

About Our Guest:

Dr. Han Nguyen, PT, DPT, NCS is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and board-certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist. She is the founder of Neubility Rehabilitation & Wellness, the only outpatient clinic in Pinellas County dedicated solely to patients with neurological conditions. Dr. Nguyen is passionate about empowering individuals with Parkinson’s, stroke, MS, spinal cord injuries, and vestibular disorders through personalized, evidence-based therapy and education.

Resources:
Parkinson's Foundation Exercise Recommendation:

https://www.parkinson.org/sites/default/files/documents/parkinsons-exercise-recommendations-infographic.pdf

Exercise Resources: 

Tampa Bay area: 

PD Life (free education on different topics, free group exercise classes, social events and support groups for both people with Parkinson's & caregivers)

https://parkinsonlife.org/

Neurochallenge (free education, group exercise classes virtually including lower level seated classes, support groups virtually and in person)

https://www.neurochallenge.org/

Rocksteady boxing & Tremble Clefs (singing program for people with Parkinsons)

https://thepalmsoflargo.com/parkinsons-programs/

YMCA classes 

https://www.stpeteymca.org/programs/parkinson-s-disease-programs/

Not in our area but virtually:

PWR! (Parkinson's Wellness Recovery)

https://www.pwr4life.org/moves/

Rouge Physical Therapy and Wellness

https://www.roguept.com/rogue-online