Parkinson’s Disease
What is it?
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a brain disorder that leads to shaking, stiffness and difficulty with walking, balance and coordination. It is a progressive disease that worsens as you age. Common symptoms are:
- Tremor (trembling) in hands, arms, legs, jaw or head
- Stiffness of the limbs and trunk
- Slowness of movement/ trouble initiating or continuing movement
- Impaired balance and coordination, sometimes resulting in falls
What causes Parkinson’s Disease?
PD occurs when nerve cells in an area of the brain that control movement become impaired or die. The actual reason these cells start to die is still unknown. Some Parkinson’s appear to be hereditary, and a few can be traced to specific genetic mutations but in most cases, the disease occurs randomly and doesn’t seem to run in families. Many researchers now believe that PD occurs from a combination of genetic factors and environmental factors such as exposure to toxins.
How can Enhance Motion help those with Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s is not curable however physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and exercise physiology can be used to help with the symptoms of PD. Our therapists work with you to help with your tremor and rigidity, balance, coordination and strength, initiation of movement as well as pacing, fatigue management and adaption strategies to remain independent.
As always, helping you to maintain your mobility, strength and function to help #enhanceyourmotion is what we pride ourselves on.
Information from nia.nih.gov