What is Parkinsons Disease?
Parkinsons Disease is a progressive neurological condition affecting movements such as walking, talking and writing. Parkinson's occurs as a result of a loss of special nerve cells. These cells are responsible for producing a chemical known as dopamine, which allows messages to be sent to parts of the brain that co-ordinate movement. With the depletion of these cells, some parts of the brain are unable to function normally.
How does Parkinson's affect people?
Parkinson's is a very individual condition, with each person experiencing different symptoms.
The main symptoms of Parkinson's can be defined by three primary features:
-
Tremor
-
Slowness of movement
-
Stiffness or 'rigidity' of muscles
Other related problems can be sleep disturbance, constipation, urinary urgency and depression.
How many people have Parkinsons Disease?
In the UK:
-
about 10,000 people in the UK are diagnosed each year
-
symptoms first appear, on average, when a patient is older than 50
-
one in 20 of those diagnosed each year will be under 40.
How does Parkinsons Disease progress?
The symptoms of Parkinson's usually begin slowly, develop gradually and in no particular order. It is important to remember that everyone with Parkinson's is very different and may have a different collection of symptoms and response to treatment.
There have been many advances in the treatment for Parkinsons Disease that can offer people a much better quality of life than was possible a few years ago. This trend is likely to continue.
How can physiotherapy help?
People with Parkinson's and their carers can derive significant benefit from even short-term or occasional contact with a neurological physiotherapist.
Initially the physiotherapist will perform an assessment, after which they may work on any or all of the following areas:
-
Help make automatic movements easier
-
Maintain independence in daily life
-
Work on stiff muscles and joints
-
Improve or maintain muscle strength
-
Help prevent or manage falls
-
Relieve pain
-
Maintain or improve breathing
-
Help to prevent circulation problems
To read how Physio Matters can help with Parkinsons Disease click HERE
For more information and advice on Parkinsons Disease you might like to visit the Parkinsons Disease Society website on:
