Learn About Medical Conditions

Parkinson’s disease is a disorder that affects nerve cells, or neurons, in a part of the brain that controls muscle movement. In Parkinson’s, neurons that make a chemical called dopamine die or do not work properly. Dopamine normally sends signals that help coordinate your movements. No one knows what damages these cells. Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease may include:

• Trembling of hands, arms, legs, jaw and face
• Stiffness of the arms, legs and trunk
• Slowness of movement
• Poor balance and coordination

As symptoms get worse, people with the disease may have trouble walking, talking or doing simple tasks. They may also have problems such as depression, sleep problems or trouble chewing, swallowing or speaking.

Parkinson’s usually begins around age 60, but it can start earlier. It is more common in men than in women.

What treatments are available?

Physical activity has been shown to be very beneficial for those with Parkinson’s, improving their balance and coordination as well as reducing stiffness. Physical therapists who have an expertise in Parkinson’s can recommend a strength training regimen.

As Parkinson’s Disease progresses, activities that could be risky must be curtailed. An occupational therapist can help determine which daily activities can still be performed safely (like dressing or using the bathroom independently) and which pose unacceptable risks (like driving).

Having a good support network can be especially helpful for people with Parkinson’s and their families.

While there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, a variety of medicines can sometimes help symptoms dramatically.