POTSDAM -- Rebecca Martin, an sssistant professor in Clarkson University's Department of Physical Therapy and Board Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist, was recently named a Parkinson's Disease Foundation faculty scholar.

Martin was one of six physical therapy faculty and five nursing faculty selected to attend a four-day training session at Boston University in August.

“I spent a day at the clinic with the top neurologists at Boston University Medical Center,” Martin said. “We went from top to bottom on all the latest research on treating people with Parkinson's disease. They were willing to share all their knowledge so we faculty can go out and educate as many people as possible."

Aside from teaching at Clarkson, Martin also practices physical therapy at Canton-Potsdam Hospital, where the majority of her patients have Parkinson's or have experienced a concussion.

Although promising research is being conducted, there is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease.

Physical therapy can improve the quality of life for those with Parkinson's disease, though. Exercise is the main tool we have to slow the progression of the disease and make the patient feel better, Martin said.

Martin is on the board of the Seaway Parkinson's Coalition and is trying to raise local awareness and provide a better support system.

The Coalition aims to help people travel to medical appointments or arrange for caregivers to come to someone's home.

A local support group for those who receive a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease meets at 2 p.m. on the third Wednesday of the month at Clarkson Hall, 59 Main St., Potsdam.

“I hope anybody who needs support will reach out. I'm happy to answer questions,” she says. She can at rmartin@clarkson.edu or 268-1652.