Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is a neurological disorder which results in the ability to control body movements (Pace and Glass, 2000). It is second only to Alzheimer's disease in frequency as a neurodegenerative disorder in the United States (Cummings, 1999). At least a half a million Americans are affected. Most cases of Parkinson's begin after age 50 years and there is an increasing age-related prevalence to at least 80 years. The problem in Parkinson's is caused by a decrease in the production of the neurotransmitter dopamine, a chemical that helps nerve cells to communicate. Dopamine controls the communications from the brain to the muscles to direct and control movement, and is responsible for these movements being smooth and deliberate, free of shaking and trembling. In Parkinson's disease, the decrease in dopamine levels leads to loss of control of movements, resulting in shaking and trembling, which are early symptoms of the disease. This makes it difficult for patients to carry out normal daily functions such as walking, preparing food, etc. The tremors and shakes are worse when the patient is relaxed. Hands, arms and legs do not move as smoothly as they did in the past, and the patient may have difficulty in holding things steadily. Sometimes the patient remains in a certain position longer than usual, and facial expressions may decrease. Problems with speech, such as speaking with a much softer voice, occur, and handwriting changes, becoming smaller and more cram

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d slow the development of physical limitations. Tai Chi helps with balance; swimming, water aerobics and walking in water help because the patient does not lose balance or fall. Massage therapy helps with muscle stiffness. Music therapy consisting of improvised singing and playing musical instruments has helped improve motor and emotional function in Parkinson's patients (Music therapy, 2000). Though music therapy did not improve systemic functioning, it did improve the quality of life for patients. Parkinson's sometimes experience inconsistent results from medications which cause them to freeze when attempting to move. Dogs have been trained to help in these situations (Petersen, 1998). The dogs are trained to tap the Parkinson's' patient's foot with their paw when they freeze, and this allows them to break the freezing cycle. The dogs can also be trained to open doors, operate light switches, retrieve dropped objects, and pick up telephone receivers. Unlike some chronic disease, the therapeutic treatment for Parkinson's is not dependent on the availability of any high-tech equipment. If patients are stable, they are seen for followup visits every three or four months. They are seen more frequently when adjustments a

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