Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects all aspects of life, specifically movement and coordination. It occurs when brain nerve cells in the substantia nigra become damaged or die, leading to a drop in dopamine levels which is a chemical that helps control muscle movement. Some of the common symptoms include tremors, stiffness, slowed movement, and balance problems. Long term effects include speech, facial expressions, and other non-motor functions. Although there is no cure, early diagnostics, physical activity, and medications can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.
The Four Cardinal Signs & Stages
The four cardinal signs of Parkinson’s is a form of early detection and understanding of the severity and progression of the disease. The four signs would be tremors, bradykinesia, postural instability, and rigidity. Often times individuals will begin to notice the tremor and rigidity before any other symptom.
There are five stages of Parkinson’s which gives providers and family an idea of how far the disease has progressed.
Each stage has different symptoms.
Stage 1: slight weakness, hand/arm trembling, occasionally dropping items
Stage 2: mask-like face, slow/shuffling walk, both limbs involved
Stage 3: postural instability, increased walking issues
Stage 4: increase in rigidity and akinesia
Stage 5: individual will need complete assistance with ADL’s
Mobility and Exercise Management
People with Parkinson’s Disease lose a chemical messenger called norepinephrine that controls many body functions. This causes these people to have uncontrolled movements such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance. Aerobic activities like walking, cycling , or swimming can enhance cardiovascular health, reduce fatigue, and boost mood. It has also been found that exercises that incorporate balance like dancing reduce fall risk and support posture because they help with coordination and refined movements. Rock climbing is highly effective in reducing motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Studies have analyzed that the climbing movements improve posture by strengthening the shoulder girdle and trunk muscles, increasing hip and shoulder flexibility, and forcing the patient to recline the head repeatedly and stretch the torso and limbs.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Early detection of Parkinson’s Disease is crucial, as it can significantly improve treatment outcomes and slow disease progression. Methods for early detection include neuorological exams, brain imagining techniques, and the analysis of biomarkers in blood and cerebrospinal fluid. Wearable technology and digital tools are also being developed to monitor subtle motor and non-motor symptoms that may appear years before a formal diagnosis. By identifying the disease at it’s earliest stages, patients can begin therapies sooner, potentially preserving the quality of life for a longer period.