Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. It happens when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine— a chemical that helps control muscle movement—begin to die or become damaged. As a result, people with Parkinson’s experience a range of symptoms that impact their daily lives, such as tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance.
What Causes Parkinson’s Disease?
The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute:
- Genetics: In some cases, Parkinson’s runs in families, but most cases are not inherited.
- Age: Parkinson’s typically develops in people over the age of 60, though it can affect younger individuals in rare cases.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to certain toxins or chemicals may increase the risk.
- Gender: Men are more likely to develop Parkinson’s than women.
Symptoms
Parkinson’s disease develops gradually, and its symptoms can vary, but common signs include:
- Tremors: Shaking, often in the hands or fingers, at rest.
- Bradykinesia: Slow movement, making daily tasks harder.
- Muscle Rigidity: Stiff muscles, often causing pain and reducing movement.
- Postural Instability: Balance problems, increasing the risk of falls.
- Speech Changes: Softening or slurring of speech.
- Cognitive and Mood Changes: Memory problems, depression, and anxiety can also occur.
Treatment Options for Parkinson’s Disease
While there’s no cure for Parkinson’s, several treatment options can help manage symptoms:
- Medications: Drugs like levodopa increase dopamine levels in the brain to improve movement.
- Physical Therapy, such as Osteopathy, helps improve strength, mobility, and balance.
- Speech Therapy: Assists with speech and swallowing issues.
- Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): A surgical option that can help reduce symptoms when medication is no longer effective.
How Osteopathy Can Help Manage Parkinson’s Disease
Osteopathy is a holistic treatment approach that uses gentle manipulation of the muscles, joints, and spine to improve movement and relieve pain. While it doesn’t cure Parkinson’s, osteopathy can help with several symptoms:
- Reducing Muscle Stiffness: Osteopathic treatments can help alleviate muscle rigidity, making movement easier and less painful.
- Improving Balance and Posture: Osteopaths can work on improving posture and stability, which may reduce the risk of falls.
- Pain Relief: Osteopathic care can help manage musculoskeletal pain, offering relief from stiffness and discomfort.
- Supporting Daily Functioning: Osteopaths focus on improving mobility in everyday movements, which can enhance the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s.
Why Book an Initial Osteopathy Consultation?
At MG Osteopathy, we create personalised treatment plans for your condition. Our experienced osteopaths will assess your areas of concern and design a customised plan to reduce pain, improve mobility and build strength.
Book today to schedule your appointment and improve your health!
