DD SIG Episode 40: Fear-Avoidance Behaviors’ Impact on Movement and Participation- with Merrill Landers and Ryan Duncan

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Merrill Landers and Dr. Ryan Duncan about their presentation at APTA’s CSM 2023, entitled “Mind Over Movement: Fear-Avoidance Behaviors Impacting Movement and Participation in Parkinson’s Disease.” Host Chris Burke talks with Merrill and Ryan about different types of fears and fear-avoidance cycles that have been studied in individuals diagnosed with Parkinson Disease, but likely also extend to other neurologic and neurodegenerative conditions. Fear of falling, fear of pain, fear of stigma, fear of progression and fear of incontinence are all covered, as well as PTs’ unique roles in identifying fears, referring for treatment, and addressing behaviors when appropriate. Listen in to this lively duo to hear how we can be more aware of these factors and modify our care to allow patients to be as active as possible. The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org