Ankylosing Spondylitis
Parkinson’s disease is a complex progressive neurodegenerative disorder. It is a multifactorial condition, with both genetic and environmental factors playing a role. Parkinson’s is caused by a loss of certain nerve cells in the brain, that are responsible for producing a chemical called dopamine. Without sufficient amounts of Dopamine, there is a loss of pathways in the brain which causes deficits in messaging and communication across various systems in the body.
The main features of Parkinson’s are: slowness of movement, tremor (shaking), muscle stiffness postural instability and walking disturbances. Parkinson’s can also affect many other aspects and often associated symptoms can include: loss of smell, sleep dysfunction, mood disorders, excess salivation (drooling), balance issues, nerve pain, constipation, swallowing difficulties and others.
Appropriate physical activity contributes to the treatment of Parkinson’s disease alongside pharmacoligical strategies that are usually prescribed by a specialist neurologist. There are a few aspects that should be addressed: aerobic activity, strength (resistance) training, balance exercises, as well as maintaining good mobility and flexibility. The physio will be able to individualise a personal rehabilitation & exercise program based on a careful clinical evaluation, functional capacity, mental health and cardiorespiratory function.
Parkinson’s has a significant clinical impact on patients, families, and caregivers through its progressive degenerative effects on the person’s daily routine, activities of daily living, general health, and mental state. Appropriate management can aid in imrproving all of the above and making sure that everything is done to improve your quality of life.