Braun, C. A., & Anderson, C. M. (2011).

Pathophysiology a clinical approach (Second

ed., pp. 462-464). Baltimore, MD:Lippincott
Williams and Wilkins.

Diseases and conditions: Parkinson's disease
(2013, November 12). In Mayo Clinic.
Retrieved March 11, 2014, from
http://www.mayoclinic.org/

Frontera, MD, PhD, FAAPMR, FACSM, W. R.
(2010). DeLisa's physical medicine and
rehabilitation: principles and practice (Fifth
ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams
and Wilkins. Retrieved March 11, 2014, from
STAT! ref online electrical medical library.

Stowe R, Ives N, Clarke CE, van Hilten, Ferreira.
J, Hawker RJ, Shah L, Wheatley K, Gray R.
(2008). Dopamine agonist therapy in early
Parkinson's disease. Cochrane Database of
Systematic Reviews, Issue 2. Art. No.:
CD006564. DOI:10.1002/14651858.
CD006564.pub2.









For more information please visit the Parkinsons
Disease Foundation at www.pdf.org
Parkinsons disease is progressive degenerative
neurological disease. It is the result of the
breakdown of neurons that are associated with
motor function. The specific neuron associated
with Parkinson disease is the nigrostriatal pathway
which is responsible for the transportation of the
neurotransmitter, or chemical, dopamine. This
chemical is responsible for the balance of the
inhibitory and excitability of the motor neuronal
motor pathways resulting in uncontrolled
movements and decreased motor function control
(Braun, 2011, pp. 462)

Incidence Rate
Parkinson's disease affects roughly 1% of the
population older than age 50 in the United States
and increases with age (Frontera, 2010).

Risk Factors
Age: Greatest risk for those 60+
Sex: More prevalent in men than women
Family History: Only high risk if multiple family
members with history
Exposure to Toxins: Herbicides and pesticides
increase risk slightly (Diseases, 2013)


What is it?
What you Need to Know

Haley VanWormer
Ferris State University
Parkinsons Disease
References


Tremors in the hands, arms, legs, and
face while resting
Slowed movement (Bradykinesia)
which may progress to eventual
inability to move (Akinesia)
Sudden halting of movement
Shuffling gait
Stooped posture
Jerky movements
Impaired balance
Postural Instability
Altered Blood Pressure
Altered Thermal Regulation
Dementia
Speech changes resulting in
monotone, expressionless voice
Stiffness in arms, legs, feet, hands,
and limbs

(Braun, 2011, pp. 463-464)
Physical, occupational, and speech
therapies may be necessary along with
pharmaceutical interventions to help
with rehabilitation and symptom
management (Frontera, 2010).
Research shows the use of dopamine
agonists can decrease motor symptoms
(Stow, 2008)
Levodopa is used to replace dopamine
and reduces neurological motor
symptoms. Often times carbidopa
(Sinemet) is prescribed with levodopa to
decrease dosage and decrease side
effects (Braun, 2011, pp. 464)
Parkinsons disease only affects those
in middle adulthood and elderly age.
Primary onset occurs from the age of
60 to 80 years. It is also one of the
most common chronic diseases of
adulthood. It can hinder the many
activities of everyday living (Frontera,
2010).
Treatment
Clinical Manifestations and
Potential Complications

Lifespan and Cultural
Considerations

http://www.mh.co.za/health/top-10-health-
issues/signs-of-parkinsons
Giuliano, V. (Artist). (2013). A stem cell cure for
parkinson's diease: so close yet so far. [Image of painting].
Retrieved March 11, 2014, from
http://www.antiagingfirewalls.com