The National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) states that 500,000 Americans suffer with Parkinson's disease, and approximately 50,000 new cases are diagnosed annually. Parkinson's is a neurobiological degenerative disease where brain cells deteriorate that are responsible for movement Consequently, the production of dopamine, a chemical messenger or neurotransmitter that enhances communication about motor function among brain cells, is decreased, which further destroys voluntary movement function. Parkinson's disease is progressive and worsens over time. No cure exists.
Tremors
Tremors are the most common early symptom of Parkinson's, and according to the
Parkinson Disease Foundation, the initial onset of tremors tends to be very localized. For example, they may begin as an intermittent trembling or shaking of one finger only. After a period of time, the tremors will transition to the rest of the upper limb. This symptom can occur in the absence of activity, specifically, this shaking may be present when the limb is resting, or what is referred to as "resting tremors." Tremors also usually are asymmetrical, which means that they affect one side of the body rather than both. It is extremely rare for a patient to experience symmetrical tremors. The only time when a person is free from this symptom is during sleep.
Bradykinesia and Posture Changes
Bradykinesia, according to the National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), is another early symptom of this disease that means slow movement. Over time, an individual's ability to initiate a movement and follow through with that movement voluntarily becomes impaired. Not only is the movement slowed down, but muscles may start to freeze randomly without any predictability. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) also describes postural changes to the point that the individual takes on a stooped appearance. Attempts to perform and control voluntary movements may be painful and exhausting, whether it is simply reaching over for something or shifting body position.
Akinesia and Gait Changes
The Parkinson's Disease Foundation describes akinesia as muscle rigidity and stiffness that can affect any muscle group. This symptom tends to begin in the muscles of the legs and neck and the face can be affected if akinesia occurs in the neck. As a result, the face takes on a mask-like appearance and a softening of the voice occurs. There may be a noticeable absence of facial expressions that is replaced by staring without blinking. The UMMC states that early on, an individual also may experience pain, numbness or tingling in the legs that is accompanied with reduced arm swing on one side when walking as well as gait changes, such as limping or dragging one leg, losing balance and stumbling.
