Whether you have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, or have a loved one coping with it, it is important to know there are ways to manage it. With all of today’s advancements, mixed with treatment, the estimated 10 million across the globe living with this disease have hope. If you’re just trying to educate yourself about Parkinson’s or are very familiar, here’s a quick overview of the condition, top symptoms and treatments and how premier physical therapy in Casper, WY will help.

Overview of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s is a disease of one’s nervous system, which impacts their movement abilities and motor skills. Over time, the nerve cells in one’s brain degenerate, hence causing the body to lose the ability to send signals throughout the body for movement. While there are breakthroughs happening every day for the disease, there still is not a cure. Those studying Parkinson’s are working to find the cause and hopefully soon the cure. Currently, researchers have found that Parkinson’s can be a genetic disease, and certain factors in the environment may have an impact in a diagnosis. Some of the latest advancements to find a cure include medication that targets areas that may cause or have involvement with the disease, determining types of non-motor function, and medicine to aid in functional issues.

What to Look for  

Overall, Parkinson’s is a disease that impacts the ability of a person’s movement. One of the first signs one with the disease notices is a tremor. This is a small shaking that can occur in the hands or chin. Many notice it starts with a movement between the thumb and index finger. Other symptoms include slower movements, poor balance, changes in handwriting, improper posture, difficulty with normal, everyday motions such, vocal changes and/or slurred speech, and stiff movements. Now, you may have experienced one or even a couple of these symptoms—it does not mean you have Parkinson’s. It is important to understand what these symptoms look like, which is explained in the 10 early signs of Parkinson’s Disease.

Treatment and Incorporating Physical Therapy

As researchers work towards a cure, there are medications that can help a person better manage their symptoms. Some medications include neurotransmitters that help to make up for the lack of signals from the brain to your body, prescriptions that create a similar effect of dopamine, and methods to slow brain degeneration. In some cases when medication does not help, a deep brain stimulation surgery can be performed. This stimulates the brain. In addition to go-to medications, physical therapy can aid in managing this disease and improve one’s quality of life. A local physical therapist can aid in the changes in one’s movement and coordination, balance and posture, pain, weak areas, and more. This occurs through a series of exercises specifically created for the patient. When searching for a physical therapist, it is important to find one experienced with this disease.

If you or a loved one are living with Parkinson’s, North Platte Physical Therapy is experienced with this disease. We have a variety of procedures through our neurological services to help you with day-to-day tasks. Contact us today to find a location near you and get started.