Parkinson’s disease is a chronic, progressive neurological disorder that affects movement control. It affects people in different ways, and symptoms can vary from person to person.

Nevertheless, its impact on an individual’s mobility is profound. In advanced stages, Parkinson’s can make even the simplest tasks challenging and, at times, impossible to perform. In this article, we’ll discuss how Parkinson’s affects mobility and what can be done to improve it.

What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. These neurons are responsible for regulating movement, mood, and motivation.

When these neurons die, the brain can’t produce enough dopamine, which leads to the symptoms of Parkinson’s, including tremors, stiffness, and difficulty moving.

How Parkinson’s affects mobility

The mobility problems associated with Parkinson’s usually start with small changes in movement, such as a slight tremor in one hand.

Over time, the symptoms progress, and the person may experience stiffness or rigidity in their limbs, making it difficult to move them as they normally would. These symptoms can also affect balance, making it challenging to walk or stand without help.

Another symptom commonly experienced by people with Parkinson’s disease is bradykinesia. Bradykinesia refers to a general slowing down of movement, which can make it difficult for the person to initiate or complete movements.

Even simple actions, such as buttoning a shirt or brushing their teeth, can become challenging and time-consuming. As the disease advances, the person may also experience freezing, where their body locks up, and they are temporarily unable to move.

How can mobility be improved?

While there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, several treatments can help manage its symptoms, including medications, physical therapy, and surgery. Here are some ways mobility can be improved:.

Medications

Several medications can help manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Dopamine replacement therapy is the most common treatment, which replaces the dopamine that the brain would normally produce.

Other medications may also be prescribed to manage non-motor symptoms, such as depression or anxiety, that can also affect mobility.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy can help stretch and strengthen muscles affected by Parkinson’s disease and improve balance and coordination.

A physical therapist can also teach the person with Parkinson’s disease how to move safely and efficiently, such as using their momentum to get up from a sitting position. Exercise, such as riding a stationary bike or swimming, can also be beneficial in improving mobility and reducing the risk of falls.

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Occupational therapy

Occupational therapy focuses on helping people with Parkinson’s disease learn how to perform activities of daily living, such as dressing, eating, and grooming.

The therapist may recommend assistive devices, such as a walker or tub bench, to help make these activities easier. They may also teach the person how to conserve their energy and work efficiently to minimize fatigue.

Surgery

Surgery is usually reserved for people with advanced Parkinson’s disease who do not respond well to medications or physical therapy.

Deep brain stimulation is a surgical procedure where electrodes are implanted in the brain, which continuously stimulate the area that controls movement. The electrical signals can reduce tremors, stiffness, and other Parkinsonism symptoms, improving mobility dramatically.

Tips for improving mobility at home

Here are some tips for people with Parkinson’s disease to increase their mobility at home:.

Make your home safe

Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and electrical cords, install grab bars in the bathroom, and ensure that stairways and hallways are well lit to reduce the risk of falls.

Plan ahead

Allow yourself plenty of time to complete tasks, plan breaks to conserve your energy, and prioritize tasks based on their importance to avoid becoming overwhelmed.

Get enough sleep

Parkinson’s can disrupt sleep patterns, but adequate sleep is essential for mobility and overall health. Try establishing a consistent sleep routine and create a relaxing environment in your bedroom.

Stay active

Exercise can help improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls. It can also boost mood and improve quality of life. Speak to your healthcare professional about what exercises are suitable for you.

Get support

Parkinson’s can be emotionally challenging, and support from family members, friends, and support groups can help manage stress and anxiety. Your healthcare provider may be able to refer you to a local support group.

The takeaway

Parkinson’s disease can have a profound impact on an individual’s mobility, making even the simplest tasks challenging and time-consuming.

Nevertheless, several treatments can help improve mobility, from medications and physical therapy to surgery. People with Parkinson’s disease can also take steps at home to improve their mobility by making their environment safe, planning ahead, staying active, and getting support.