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Parkinson’s disorder is the most common serious movement disorder in the world, affecting about 1% of grown-ups aged 60 times. While the disease is thought to be caused by a selective loss of neurons in the substantia nigra, the origin is unknown in most cases.
SIGN AND SYMPTOM
Parkinson's disease is distinguished by three main symptoms:
In the early stages of the disease, postural instability—which is occasionally considered a crucial characteristic—is typically absent and non-specific, particularly in younger patients.
The illness is characterized by motor aspects, but it also frequently manifests as a variety of non-motor symptoms, including as autonomic dysfunction, abnormalities in cognitive and mental functioning, sensory complaints, and disturbed sleep.
MANAGEMENT
Medication Management:
It is common practice to administer medication to treat Parkinson's disease's motor symptoms. One typical drug that helps patients with Parkinson's disease replace their levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter, is levodopa. It is also possible to prescribe other drugs, such as MAO-B inhibitors and dopamine agonists.
Physical THERAPY:
Maintaining and enhancing strength, balance, and mobility require physical therapy. To help patients maximise their physical function and address particular motor problems, therapists can create customised exercise regimens.
SPEECH COUNSELLING:
Parkinson's disease can cause swallowing and speaking problems, which speech therapy can help with. Vocal strength and articulation exercises are the focus of therapists.
DBS OR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION:
DBS is a surgical technique in which electrodes are inserted into particular brain regions. When patients' motor symptoms are not properly controlled by medicine alone, it can assist.
PROVIDENT CARE:
In order to treat non-motor symptoms, supportive care entails counselling, psychological support, and education for both patients and carers. Support groups can offer an invaluable platform for exchanging experiences and coping mechanisms.
SUPPORT FOR NUTRITION:
It's essential to have a balanced diet for general health. Certain drugs may impair appetite, and problems with swallowing may have an impact on diet. Advice on sticking to a healthy diet can be obtained from a nutritionist.
MODIFICATIONS TO MEDICATION:
Over time, Parkinson's symptoms may alter, necessitating changes to treatment regimen. It is crucial to schedule routine check-ups with a neurologist or movement disorder specialist in order to monitor symptoms and optimise treatment plans.
PREVENTING FALLS:
Parkinson's disease patients are more likely to stumble because of problems with their balance and coordination. Exercise, assistive technology, and home adjustments can all help lower this risk.
Management of Medications for Non-Motor Symptoms:
In Parkinson's disease, non-motor symptoms like anxiety, depression, and sleep difficulties are frequently experienced. For the purpose of treating these symptoms, prescription drugs and other treatment measures might be suggested.
In what ways does Aspire handle Parkinson?
Physical therapy is what we do at Aspire
Training Your Gait:
Parkinson's disease frequently causes problems with gait. The goals of physiotherapists are to enhance balance, step length, and walking patterns. Certain gait training activities are intended to improve range of motion and lower the chance of falling.
Equilibrium Practice:
One common symptom of Parkinson's is balance problems. A reduction in the risk of falls can be achieved by physiotherapists by using exercises that enhance stability and balance. Things like walking on uneven ground or standing on one leg are examples of activities that can make one's balance difficult.
Exercises for Range of Motion and Flexibility:
Maintaining joint range of motion and preventing stiffness which is common in Parkinson's disease requires stretching and flexibility exercises.
Strengthening Activities:
Muscle strength is increased with resistance exercise, especially in the lower limbs. Exercises for strengthening the muscles can improve a person's general range of motion and make daily tasks easier for them.
Training for Motor Control and Coordination:
We assist people perform motions more fluidly and effectively by working on exercises that enhance motor control and coordination.
External Stimuli and Cueing:
Movement start and coordination can be enhanced by the use of external cues, such as visual or auditory signals. Using rhythmic cues, physiotherapists can help patients move more fluidly.
Functional Training:
The workout programme incorporates exercises that are similar to everyday chores. Applying their increased strength and agility to everyday situations is made easier for Parkinson's patients because to this.
Advice on Education and Lifestyle:
We teach people with Parkinson's disease and those who care for them the value of movement techniques, exercise, and lifestyle changes in promoting general health and well-being.
Frequent Inspections and Modifications:
The exercise programme is modified as necessary in response to changes in symptoms or functional skills, and progress is routinely assessed.
By Dr.Ayush Ranjan (Physiotherapist)