Freeze Break Techniques

• STOP – take a deep breath and take a large step.
• Shift all weight onto one foot to allow the other foot to step forward.
• Count “1 and 2 and 3,” and then step forward.
• Shift weight side to side, then step forward.
• Imagine stepping over something on the ground and then actually step over it.
• Have someone place their foot in front of yours for you to step over.
• Place all your weight on one leg while swinging the other leg back and forth a few times; on the last swing forward, take a step.
• Try another movement (raise an arm, touch your head, point to the ceiling), then take a large step.
• Change direction: if you can’t move forward, step sideways first, then forward.
• Carry a laser pointer in your pocket; when you freeze, shine the light in front and step onto it.
• Try humming a song and time your restart with the beat.
• March in place a few times, then step forward.

Remember: DO NOT FIGHT THE FREEZE!

• An easy way to remember these tips is the “4 S’s”:
• STOP – steady yourself and take a deep breath.
• STAND TALL.
• SHIFT – move your weight side to side.
• STEP – take a BIG step!

by Alexis Santangelo, Movement Disorders Center | Department of Neurology, University Hospitals