"Parkinson's disease is related to a loss of nerve cells in your brain that produce a chemical called dopamine. Dopamine is an important factor in controlling movement.

The exact cause of PD is not yet known. Family history, aging, or exposure to certain environmental toxins may contribute to the onset of PD. It is a chronic degenerative disease, which means that it gets worse over time; however, people usually do not die from PD.

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of PD can be very mild at first. A common early symptom is a tremor in one hand, most often when you are at rest. It might look like you are rolling a pill between your thumb and forefinger. Tremors also can occur in your legs or jaw when you are at rest. Since the tremors are most apparent during rest, they usually go away when moving and typically don't interfere substantially with daily function.

As the condition progresses, you may notice other symptoms:

 •Your movements may become smaller, possibly resulting in: •shuffling when you walk, end of a sentence.

 •arms swinging less when you walk, and

 •your handwriting trailing off at the end of a sentence.

 •You may develop a feeling of stiffness or rigidity in your muscles, causing discomfort in your neck, trunk, or shoulders.

 •You may have postural instability, resulting in poor balance and a greater risk of falling.

 •Your movements may become slower when doing daily activities such as dressing, showering, or moving in bed.

 •You might feel as though your feet "freeze" to the floor, making it hard to take a first step.

 •You may develop a stooped posture.

 •You may find it physically difficult to speak loudly.

 •Family and friends might notice that you show less expression in your face.

How Can a Physical Therapist Help?

Parkinson disease can make daily activities seem frustrating and time-consuming. Your physical therapist will become a partner with you and your family to help you combat and manage the symptoms of PD. As your condition changes, your treatment program will be adjusted to help you be as independent and as active as possible."

Reference: http://www.moveforwardpt.com/symptomsconditionsdetail.aspx?cid=98297eb9-eaa1-452e-9489-b46eedf27e80

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