Parkinson's Disease

What is Parkinson's Disease?

Is a progressive movement disorder caused by degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain (within the substantia nigra, more specifically the pars compacta) which leads to resting tremor, rigidity, problems initiating movement, and postural instability just to name a few.

The main intervention is medication which increases dopamine levels within the brain to decrease symptoms but unfortunately, the progressive disease can be slowed but not stopped with treatment.

Parkinson's disease affects approximately 1% of the population for individuals aged 60+ with more men than women being affected.

They are two main neuropathic findings in Parkinson disease which are:

1. Loss of pigmented dopaminergic neurons

2. Presence of Lewy Bodies & Lewy Neurites (I won't go into detail about these)

   
   

   

   
   

Risk Factors:

• Family History

• Previous Head Injuries

• Pesticide Exposure

Presentation/Symptoms:

• Freezing

• Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)

• Resting Tremor (hands shake)

• Falls (postural instability)

• Rigidity

• Significant Mood Changes

• Bowel Issues (e.g., constipation)

• Sleep Disturbances

• Change of Smell & Taste

How is it Diagnosed?

• Parkinson's Isn't diagnosed via one single test but via multiple tests and meeting specific criteria.

• Typically, a Neurologist with perform a clinical evaluation which focuses on motor (movement) and non-motor (everything else) symptoms as well as a neurological examination.

• If there's a significant reduction in symptoms from taking dopamine medication, a diagnosis will more than likely be confirmed.

How Can Exercise Physiology Help?

• Improve walking mobility and gait

• Reduce falls risk and enhance balance

• Decrease freezing symptoms

• Better sleep

• Less fatigue

• Improved mental health

• Aid in relieving constipation and creating regular bowel movements

• Significantly decrease the progression of the disease

For any further information, questions, or to book an appointment please feel free to contact me via phone (03) 8203 2814 or email curtis@conqueralliedhealth.com.au 

"Conquer Your Pain, Injury, and Health."