Freezing of Gait in Parkinson’s: Why It Happens and How to Overcome It
If you or a loved one has Parkinson’s disease, you might be familiar with a frustrating symptom called freezing of gait — that sudden feeling where your feet feel “stuck” to the floor, even though your mind is ready to move.
It often happens at doorways, when turning, or when trying to start walking — and it can lead to falls, fear, and a loss of confidence. But here’s the encouraging truth: with the right therapy, training, and tools, freezing can be managed and improved.
What Is Freezing of Gait?
Freezing of gait (FoG) is a temporary, involuntary inability to move the feet forward despite the intention to walk. It usually lasts just a few seconds, but it can make a big impact on safety and mobility.
Common situations where freezing may occur include:
- Starting to walk after standing still
- Turning or changing direction
- Approaching a doorway or narrow space
- Walking in crowded environments
- Feeling rushed or anxious
Why It Happens
Freezing is caused by disruptions in the brain’s motor control pathways, specifically those that coordinate automatic movement.
In Parkinson’s disease, these pathways are affected by reduced dopamine production, which can cause:
- Delays in signal transmission between the brain and muscles
- Difficulty switching from one motion to another (like stopping and starting)
- Problems combining balance, coordination, and timing
Environmental and emotional factors — like stress, fatigue, or cluttered spaces — can make freezing more frequent.
How Physical Therapy Helps Manage Freezing
At Synaptic Rehabilitation, our physical therapists use targeted strategies to retrain movement patterns and help patients regain walking confidence.
1. Cueing Techniques
Using visual, auditory, or rhythmic cues helps the brain “unlock” movement. For example:
- Stepping over floor markers or laser lines
- Walking to the beat of a metronome or music
- Counting steps aloud
These cues bypass the faulty motor circuit and engage alternative brain pathways.
2. Gait Training
Therapists help you relearn smooth, rhythmic walking with strategies like:
- Longer, more deliberate steps
- Controlled turns
- Dual-task training (walking while talking or counting)
Learn more about Parkinson’s Disease Physical Therapy in Bridgewater, NJ.
3. Balance and Strength Training
Improving core and leg strength enhances control and reduces freezing episodes. Balance training also lowers fall risk when freezing does occur.
4. Environmental Modifications
Small changes at home can make a big difference, such as:
- Clearing clutter and obstacles
- Adding contrast strips at thresholds
- Using assistive devices as needed
When to Seek Help
If freezing happens more often or leads to near-falls, don’t wait. A structured therapy program can help identify triggers, teach you practical techniques, and keep you moving safely.
Our Parkinson’s Wellness Center provides specialized gait and balance programs designed for every stage of Parkinson’s.
External resource: Learn more about freezing of gait from the Parkinson’s Foundation.
The Takeaway
Freezing doesn’t mean your journey stops — it means your therapy needs to adapt.
With proper training, cueing, and consistent practice, you can retrain your brain and regain confidence in every step.
📍 Visit us at 1200 Route 22 East, Suite 4, Bridgewater, NJ 08807
📞 Call: 908-801-6425
Steven Cheung, DPT
Steven is the founder and lead physical therapist at SYNAPTIC Rehabilitation. He earned a BS in Exercise Science Applied Kinesiology from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ and his Doctorate degree from American International College in Springfield, MA. Steven specializes in movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and many other neurological disorders. Outside of practicing physical therapy Steven enjoys time with his wife, running, and staying active.