What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic and progressive neurological disorder, meaning that symptoms continue and worsen over time. The cause is unknown, and although there is presently no cure, there are treatment options such as medication and surgery to manage its symptoms.

Parkinsons primarily affects neurons in an area of the brain called the substantia nigra. Some of these dying neurons produce dopamine, a chemical that sends messages to the part of the brain that controls movement and coordination. As PD progresses, the amount of dopamine produced in the brain decreases, leaving a person unable to control movement normally.

The specific group of symptoms that an individual experiences varies from person to person. Broadly they are  (a) Motor   (b) Non-Motor signs of Parkinson’s disease

Motor symptoms

• Tremor of hands, arms, legs, jaw and face
• Bradykinesia or slowness of movement
• Rigidity or stiffness of the limbs and trunk
• Postural instability or impaired balance and coordination

Non-motor Symptoms

Non-motor symptoms may precede motor symptoms by years.

Early

• Loss of sense of smell, constipation
• REM sleep disorder (acting out dreams, sleep terror, visual hallucinations)
• Mood disorders (anxiety and/or depression)
• Orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure when standing up causing dizziness)
• Nocturia (urge to pass urine at night)

Late

• Excessive saliva
• Weight loss or gain
• Fatigue and loss of energy
• Skin problems
• Cognitive issues, such as memory difficulties, slowed thinking, confusion and in some individuals, dementia
• Medication side effects, such as impulsive behaviors, pathological gambling and hypersexuality.

About us & Parkinson’s Disease

We are a specialist team of Parkinson’s specialist , neurophysiotherapist & occupational therapist with vast experience in treating Parkinson’s disease. A detailed clinical history & examination is done and treatment plan will be tailored according to your need. They range from medications for tremor, freezing of gait, rigidity, urinary disturbance, restlessness, mood disturbance, memory loss & hyper salivation to surgical options like deep brain stimulation. Botox injections can be done to reduce hyper salivation.

Parkinson’s Physiotherapy

• Exercises to improve mobility, muscle strength, balance and gait.
• Techniques to safely transfer, turn and walk to prevent falls and maintain independence.
• Cuing techniques to overcome freezing of gait.
• Tai chi and Pilates help in maintaining balance and posture.