Parkinson’s Disease Treatment in Switzerland
Parkinson’s disease changes lives and does so gradually. A Parkinson’s diagnosis is a blow that raises many questions for patients and their relatives. Even though there isn’t currently a cure, state-of-the-art targeted rehabilitation can effectively alleviate Parkinson’s symptoms and maintain quality of life for longer.
What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s – also known as Parkinson’s disease or idiopathic Parkinson’s syndrome – is a progressive, chronic disease of the nervous system. It leads to a loss of function in certain nerve cells in the brain which gradually die or can no longer carry out their function. The exact causes of this cell damage are still not fully known. The main symptom is that movements become slower and smaller. Depending on the progress of the disease, other symptoms arise as well.
Parkinson’s treatment seeks to combine medical and non-medical therapies to slow the progression of the disease and help to maintain patients’ quality of life for longer.
Parkinson’s symptoms: How do you recognize Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s usually initially manifests with changes in movements. Other complaints may then arise over time and these can be physical as well as cognitive.
Typical symptoms of Parkinson’s disease
- Movements become slower and smaller (so-called akinesia). This is evident in shortened steps or fewer spontaneous movements, such as swinging the arms or facial expressions (“poker face”), for example.
- Difficulties getting started or when initiating actions
- Stiff muscles
- Tremors
- Walking and balance problems
Non-motor symptoms
Alongside motor signs, other problems often appear, such as:
- Pain (e.g., in the back and joints)
- Speech and voice impairments
- Depression, anxiety, hallucinations, cognitive deficit
- Problems with the bladder, digestion, and erections
- Circulation and blood pressure problems such as vertigo
- Sleeping disorders
Parkinson’s disease flare-ups
Many patients experience a sudden deterioration of symptoms and perceive this to be a “Parkinson’s flare up”. The cause may not be directly connected to the underlying disease, but can also be caused by acute triggers such as infection, medication, or other stressors.
Increased stiffness, stronger tremors and problems walking are typical. For the most part, this deterioration is temporary and improves with professional treatment. It is important to seek rapid medical attention.
The importance of rehabilitation for Parkinson’s
The effectiveness of targeted Parkinson’s rehabilitation has been scientifically proven. Studies show that patients cope with their symptoms better and can stay active for longer.
The most important goals of Parkinson’s rehabilitation are:
- to fine-tune medication – with careful monitoring around the clock,
- to improve motor and cognitive functions, and
- to enable patients to manage daily life more independently and improve their quality of life.
Modern Parkinson’s disease treatment
Effective Parkinson’s treatment combines proven therapies with innovative approaches. At VITREA, movement disorder specialists work hand-in-hand to create a personal program which strengthens both physical and emotional performance.
Conventional therapies
- Physiotherapy – improves mobility, coordination, and gait.
- Occupational therapy – trains everyday manipulation and supports independence.
- Speech therapy – strengthens the voice, speech and swallow function.
- Neuropsychology – promotes memory, attention and emotional stability.
Specialist therapies
- Orthoptics – treats visual impairments that can occur with Parkinson’s.
- Dysphagia therapy – supports patients with swallowing disorders.
- Neuro-urology – alleviates bladder complaints and incontinence.
- LSVT BIG – this special training makes movements larger and stronger, and speech comprehensible again.
Technological therapies
- Robotics-assisted therapies – precise, intensive training with state-of-the-art devices.
- Adjustment according to DBS – deep brain stimulation.
- Application and adjustment of Duo-Dopa pumps – so medication can be administered continuously.
- Cue2walk – to improve gait and movement sequences
Modern neuromodulation
Shock wave therapy – to improve cognitive abilities.
Recommended length of stay in a Parkinson's clinic
We recommend inpatient rehabilitation programs lasting three to six weeks.
Our Parkinson’s specialists
Dr. med. Carlo Wilke
Head of Parkinson's Center
Specialist in Neurology
German, English
Dr. med. Matthias Oechsner
Senior Physician
Specialist in Neurology
German, English
Dr. med. Wolfgang Fogel
Senior Physician
Specialist in Neurology
German, English
Our Parkinson’s treatment center
Partnership with Parkinson Schweiz and the Swiss Movement Disorder Society.
Why VITREA?
A focus on medical care
Personalized stroke treatment plan
Dedicated patient service
Individual admissions planning
Patient testimonials and success stories
Many of our patients report feeling noticeably more independent in everyday life after just three weeks of Parkinson’s treatment. This progress is encouraging and shows how effective modern Parkinson’s rehabilitation can be.
"I can highly recommend Rehaklinik Zihlschlacht. Very friendly, competent staff, warm atmosphere, beautiful facilities!
I spent six weeks in the ‘Thur’ ward. The goal: to improve my ability to cope with everyday life. Fortunately, my expectations were exceeded in every respect and I left the clinic a changed person. Most of the symptoms of my Parkinson's disease had improved dramatically or even disappeared completely." (translated)
Christoph T.
What are the treatment options for Parkinson’s symptoms?
Alongside medication, rehabilitation plays a central role. Physiotherapy improves mobility, occupational therapy supports everyday life, and speech therapy helps speech and swallowing problems. Special treatments such as LSVT BIG & LOUD as well as robotics complement the program.
How long is the recommended rehab duration for Parkinson’s patients?
Based on experience, inpatient programs between three and six weeks yield the best results. We will happily put together a personalized quote exactly tailored to your needs and goals.
What is the role of robotics therapy in rehabilitation?
Robotics therapy uses state-of-the-art equipment to guide and repeat movements in a targeted way. This allows patients with strokes, Parkinson’s or back injuries to make progress more quickly. The combination of precision, motivation and feedback makes the treatment especially effective.
How do patients travel safely to Switzerland?
We support you to travel to our clinic safely and smoothly. Depending on where the patient lives and their health status, we can organize transport on request – such as by patient transport.
Please let us know as soon as possible about your travel wishes so we can find the best and safest solution for you.
Are you interested in treatment programs for Parkinson's? Contact us for a non-binding quote.
