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Tuesday, August 7, 2018

Neurologist will speak at Parkinson's disease program

Special to the Democrat    August 6, 2018

Dr. Melissa J. Armstrong, MD, MSc


Anyone living with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers will want to know about the program planned for Sept. 14 at the Capital City Country Club.

The Parkinson’s Update luncheon promises a comprehensive discussion on the latest medical research, medications, and techniques for combatting Parkinson’s disease symptoms followed by a Q&A session with PD experts. 

The event features Dr. Melissa J. Armstrong, MD, MSc, director of the Mangurian Clinical Research Center for Lewy Body and Parkinson’s Disease Dementia at the University of Florida and co-author of “Parkinson’s Disease: Improving Patient Care.”
In addition to Armstrong, attendees will hear from Sweat Therapy Fitness Owner/ Founder Kim Bibeau. Certified in the Rock Steady Boxing Method designed to slow the progression of Parkinson’s Disease, Coach Kim helps those with PD fight back against their symptoms through non-contact boxing-based workouts at her Tallahassee fitness center. 
“I look forward to sharing the latest breakthroughs with the North Florida Parkinson’s community,” says Armstrong. “As a physician, I treasure the opportunity to take my practice into the community and encourage people to be proactive and progressive regarding their healthcare. PD treatment has come such a long way and I hope this event will inspire those living with PD to fight back against their disease with everything at their disposal.” 


In addition to sharing the latest medical perspectives, Armstrong will also host a Q&A to address specific attendee concerns and will provide insight into how to best speak with neurologists and other healthcare providers regarding Parkinson’s Disease. 
“Communication is key,” says Armstrong. “A few helpful tips can go a long way in creating an enjoyable and productive physician/patient relationship that ultimately results in the best possible care.” 
In addition to traditional medical information, Parkinson’s Update will feature a presentation from Bibeau educating attendees on the “Rock Steady Boxing Method.” Developed by Rock Steady Boxing, Inc., the method was adapted from training used by professional boxers and emphasizes gross motor movements, balance, core strength, and rhythm to slow the progression of Parkinson’s symptoms and improve the ability to perform activities of daily living. As the Head Rock Steady Boxing Coach at Sweat Therapy Fitness, she oversees the proven program offering seven Rock Steady Boxing workouts a week.
A study at the Cleveland Clinic, focused on intense “forced” exercise, indicated certain types of exercise can exert a neuroprotective influence and may actually slow the progression of the chronic, incurable disease. For Paul Kelley, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease at 31 years old, intensive exercise in the form of Rock Steady Boxing has dramatically improved his Parkinson’s Disease symptoms. 
“Boxing is one of my new favorite exercises, says Kelley. 

If you go

What: Parkinson’s Update 
When: 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14
Where: Capital City Country Club, 1601 Golf Terrace Drive.
Tickets:  $20 per individual and participants receive a $5 discount when purchasing two tickets. Visit https://850tix.com/events/parkinsons-update-luncheon 

Details: If you have questions about the Parkinson’s Update seminar, email kathryn@sweattherapyfitness.com.    

https://www.tallahassee.com/story/life/wellness/2018/08/06/parkinsons-update-brings-cutting-edge-information-program/914516002/

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