Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Disease is a neurodegenerative condition that primarily affects the neurotransmitters in the basal ganglia, a part of the brain that is involved in many functions of the body both directly and indirectly. This includes, but is not limited to, cognition, motivation, voluntary movement, eye movement, emotion and it plays a role in the integration and relaying of sensory input.

The exact cause of Parkinson’s Disease is still unknown but excitingly with current research there is greater understanding that there may be some genetic factors at play. Parkinson’s Disease actually falls under an umbrella term of movement disorders called Parkinsonism, which includes other conditions such as vascular parkinsonism, drug-induced parkinsonism, and other forms of neurodegenerative disorders such as Multi Systems Atrophy (MSA) and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP).

Parkinson’s Disease can be tracked along the disease progression through many different outcome measures, however it is commonly classified according to the Hoehn and Yahr 5-Stage Scale.

Common challenges:

Muscle stiffness
Slowed movement
Shuffling steps
Poor balance
Tremors
Perseveration
Festination

Freezing
Dystonia
Poor cognition
Low mood
Memory loss
Swallowing and speech difficulties
Bladder and bowel difficulties

The role of a neurological physiotherapist in Parkinson’s Disease:

Neurological physiotherapists are physiotherapists with additional training and expertise in treating problems related to the brain, spinal cord, inner ear and nerves. Neurological physiotherapists apply their neuroscience knowledge to assess the physical aspects that are affected by Parkinson’s, so as to individualise a treatment strategy and approach that would enable the person to change their movement behaviour.

Physiotherapy for Parkinson’s has recently become popular as a variable treatment option. There is strong evidence that physiotherapy is effective for Parkinson’s Disease, with most of the evidence and therapy targeted towards younger and earlier disease stages where it has been shown to improve quality of life, movement speed and amplitude and ease of movement. This has spurred onto the creation of Parkinson’s specific exercise programs such as LSVT and PD Warrior among other programs for Parkinsons physio.

Another body of evidence is building for the use of music and dance as therapeutic activities for people with Parkinson’s, as a method of bypassing the basal ganglia so the brain can access movement through different pathways.

There is also some evidence to suggest that hydrotherapy or pool based programs provide immense benefit for the person with Parkinson’s, as well as tailored home and gym exercise programs that are goal-focused and provide at least moderate intensity to create long lasting change and a reduction in symptom severity or delay in onset. As advocates of neurological physiotherapy, we recommend physiotherapy for Parkinson’s as an effective treatment option.

What our skilled therapists can offer for Parkinsons physio:

Thoroughly assess the individual’s neurological systems to determine current and predicted abilities
Understand how your medications might impact on your current function
Design a personalised neuro rehab program that is holistic and considers the 24-hour routine
Provide hands-on treatment to teach the individual how to move better or more efficiently
Teach strategies to minimise falls and injury, or to overcome freezing and other movement difficulties
Assist in the management of rigidity and muscle tone together with neurologists
Provide advice on facilitating a healthy lifestyle and identification of factors that may improve an individual’s daily life
Review and prescribe equipment that you may need
Liaise with the other health professionals as required to assist in your rehabilitation or health and well-being
Write reports as required to advocate for your health and capacity building to funding bodies such as the NDIS.
Meet you at your home, gym or pool in our northern, eastern, southeastern and bayside suburbs of Melbourne to maximise therapy gains outside the clinic
Utilise our Allied Health Assistants to increase therapy frequency when intensive periods are required, to allow optimal functional outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement. It is characterized by tremors, stiffness, and slowing of movement due to the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain.

How is Parkinson's Disease diagnosed?

Diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease is primarily clinical and based on medical history and a neurological examination. Imaging tests like PET scans and DaTscans may support the diagnosis, but there is no definitive test.

At what age is Parkinson's Disease typically diagnosed?

Parkinson’s Disease is most commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 60, but early-onset Parkinson’s can occur before the age of 50.

What are the early signs of Parkinson's Disease?

Early signs of Parkinson’s Disease include slight shaking or tremor in a limb, particularly when at rest, rigidity or a feeling of stiffness in the body, limbs, or neck, and slowness of movement (bradykinesia).

Can younger adults be diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease?

Yes, while it is less common, younger adults can be diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s Disease, which occurs in individuals younger than 50 years old.

Is there a cure for Parkinson's Disease?

There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s Disease, but medications, surgical options, and lifestyle adjustments can manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

What causes Parkinson's Disease?

The exact cause of Parkinson’s Disease is unknown, but it is thought to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Decreased levels of dopamine due to the death of nerve cells are a primary factor.

How can families support a member with Parkinson's Disease?

Families can support a Parkinson’s patient by learning about the disease, facilitating medical care, providing emotional support, and adapting the living environment to accommodate their physical needs.

Can individuals with Parkinson's Disease lead independent lives?

Many individuals with Parkinson’s Disease can maintain independence through the early and middle stages of the disease with the help of medications and therapies designed to manage symptoms.

How does exercise benefit those with Parkinson's Disease?

Regular exercise is beneficial for people with Parkinson’s Disease as it helps maintain mobility, balance, and overall function. It can also contribute to a positive outlook and improve quality of life.