Massage therapy · Kitchener–WaterlooParkinson's Disease

Other factors believed to increase the chances of developing the disease include having close relatives with Parkinson's (NINDS, 2026), although inherited forms of the disease are rare (NHS, 2022c).

Exposure to some environmental factors, such as certain pesticides and other pollutants, may also play a part in the development of the disease (NHS, 2022c; NINDS, 2026).

The main symptoms are tremor (shaking), slow movement and stiff muscles (NHS, 2022a).

Muscle Rigidity - Stiff or aching muscles are common in people with Parkinson's. Rigidity may affect the leg muscles, the face, the neck and other parts of the body, and can make it hard to move around and make facial expressions (NHS, 2022b). Muscles often feel tired and achy.

Slowness of Movement - Movements become much slower than normal (this is called bradykinesia), which can make everyday tasks such as washing or dressing take much longer (NHS, 2022b; NINDS, 2026).

Problems with Walking and Balance - Someone with Parkinson's disease may develop a slow, shuffling walk with very small steps (NHS, 2022b). They may stoop forward, have less natural arm swing on one or both sides, and have trouble turning or starting to walk (NINDS, 2026). Together, posture and balance problems can lead to slips and falls. These problems tend to appear as the disease progresses.

Tremors - Shaking is often one of the first symptoms that family or friends notice. It usually begins in the hand or arm and is more likely to happen when the limb is relaxed and resting (NHS, 2022b). It may improve when the person moves the limb on purpose and usually stops during sleep (NINDS, 2026). In the beginning, tremors may only occur on one side of the body. Some people with Parkinson's never develop a tremor (NINDS, 2026).

Other Symptoms - Parkinson's can also cause a wide range of other physical and mental symptoms, such as depression and anxiety, loss of the sense of smell, problems sleeping and memory problems (NHS, 2022a).

There is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease. However, treatments are available to help reduce the main symptoms and maintain quality of life for as long as possible. These include supportive treatments such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy, medication, and in some cases brain surgery (NHS, 2022a). Care is usually shared between your family doctor or nurse practitioner and a care team that may include a neurologist, specialist nurses, physiotherapists and occupational therapists. Any medicines for Parkinson's will be prescribed and reviewed by your doctor or specialist.

While Parkinson's disease most often starts after the age of 50, it can appear at earlier ages.

If you or a loved one has symptoms that could be Parkinson's disease, such as tremor or shaking, slow movement or stiffness, it is a good idea to make an appointment with your family doctor or nurse practitioner. They will ask about the problems you are having and may refer you to a specialist (NHS, 2022a).

Blood pressure can drop when you change position, so I'll help you on and off the table and have you sit for a moment first. Parkinson Canada's local groups are a good source of support.