Each year, about 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Men are nearly twice as likely to develop this disease. Our team works closely with Parkinson’s patients, keeping their symptoms at bay with a variety of treatment plans tailored to the individual.
Parkinson’s is a movement disorder that occurs when motor nerves degenerate or die, losing their ability to release the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine is essential for regulating body movement.
There are four primary Parkinson’s symptoms:
As a progressive disease, Parkinson’s symptoms do not always develop or worsen equally. For example, tremors may begin in one limb and gradually spread throughout the body.
Some patients may also experience an inability to move, changes to their gait, posture or handwriting, difficulty swallowing and cognitive impairment. You may even notice changes in their speech, such as slurring or a monotone cadance.
There are a variety of medications available that work to restore the balance of dopamine in your brain. Your doctor may also employ Deep Brain Stimulation (DST), a surgical procedure that uses an implanted device to send electrical impulses to your brain. This impulses block signals from damaged nerves, lessening your tremors and other symptoms.
Many people with Parkinson’s disease live for years or even decades after their diagnosis. While Parkinson’s is a progressive condition, it typically does not shorten life expectancy significantly for most individuals. Factors like overall health, age at diagnosis, and access to care can influence outcomes. At Brain & Spine Specialists, we provide ongoing support and personalized Parkinson’s disease treatments to help patients maintain the best possible quality of life.
When someone has Parkinson’s disease, their brain has trouble producing dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement. This leads to symptoms like tremors, stiffness, slow movement, and balance problems. Over time, Parkinson’s can also affect speech, facial expressions, and thinking abilities. Our neurology team is experienced in diagnosing Parkinson’s and creating care plans that support both motor and non-motor symptoms.
The best approach for managing Parkinson’s disease is a combination of medication, physical therapy, and regular follow-ups with a neurologist. Staying active, maintaining a healthy diet, and working with a care team experienced in Parkinson’s treatments can make a big difference. At Brain & Spine Specialists, we tailor each treatment plan to the individual—whether that includes medication adjustments, Parkinson’s physical therapy, or support for daily living challenges.
Parkinson’s disease is caused by the gradual breakdown of nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine. The exact reason this happens isn’t fully understood, but genetics and environmental factors may play a role. While most cases are not inherited, some people may have a family history, which could slightly raise the risk. If you’re concerned about Parkinson’s genetic risks or symptoms, our neurologists can help guide you through diagnosis and next steps.
Early signs of Parkinson’s disease often include a resting tremor (shaking when muscles are relaxed), slowed movement, stiffness, or changes in posture and balance. Some people also notice softer speech, smaller handwriting, or a lack of facial expression. These symptoms can be subtle at first, so it’s important to talk to a neurologist if you or a loved one is noticing changes. At Brain & Spine Specialists, we can help with diagnosing Parkinson’s disease early and accurately.
Parkinson’s disease can feel different for each person, but common sensations include muscle stiffness, slowed movement, and tremors. Some people describe it as feeling “heavy” or like their body doesn’t respond as quickly as it used to. Fatigue, balance problems, or emotional changes may also be part of the experience. Our care team takes the time to listen, explain Parkinson’s symptoms, and develop a plan that helps you feel more in control.
Parkinson’s disease typically progresses in five stages, from very mild symptoms to more advanced challenges with movement and daily activities. In the early stages, symptoms may only affect one side of the body. Over time, they can become more noticeable and eventually impact balance, independence, and mobility. Our team helps guide patients through each phase with individualized Parkinson’s disease treatments and supportive care.
Parkinson’s disease often starts with subtle symptoms like a slight tremor, stiffness, or changes in walking, posture, or facial expressions. It can also begin with non-motor symptoms such as sleep disturbances or a reduced sense of smell. Because these early signs are easy to overlook, it’s important to get checked if something feels off. Diagnosing Parkinson’s early allows us to begin treatment sooner, which can help manage symptoms more effectively.
Parkinson’s disease is most commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 60, but it can begin earlier. In some cases, people develop symptoms before age 50—a condition known as early-onset Parkinson’s. No matter your age, it’s important to talk to a neurologist if you notice symptoms like tremors, slowed movement, or stiffness. At Brain & Spine Specialists, we’re here to help explain Parkinson’s disease and guide you through the next steps.
Parkinson’s disease most often affects older adults, typically over 60. Men are slightly more likely to develop it than women, and certain genetic or environmental factors can raise the risk. While there’s no guaranteed way to predict who will get Parkinson’s, understanding your personal and family history can be helpful. If you have questions about Parkinson’s genetic risk or symptoms, our neurologists can provide clear answers and support.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects how the brain controls movement. It’s caused by a loss of dopamine-producing cells, which leads to symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement. Over time, it can also impact balance, speech, and other functions. At Brain & Spine Specialists, we offer Parkinson’s physical therapy, medications, and long-term care strategies to help patients manage symptoms and stay active.
Parkinson’s disease affects both men and women, usually later in life, though it can begin earlier. It not only impacts the person diagnosed, but also their families and caregivers. Because Parkinson’s changes over time, having a strong support system and expert care can make a meaningful difference. Our team works closely with patients and loved ones to help manage symptoms and improve daily life.
Parkinson’s disease progresses gradually over time. Early symptoms may be mild and only affect one side of the body, but as the condition advances, movement, balance, and daily activities can become more challenging. The speed of progression varies from person to person. At Brain & Spine Specialists, we closely monitor each patient’s symptoms and adjust Parkinson’s disease treatments to provide the right support at every stage.
Most people with Parkinson’s experience a slow and steady progression of symptoms. It often begins with tremors or stiffness and may later involve balance issues, speech changes, or cognitive symptoms. While the condition is long-term, early diagnosis and consistent care can help patients maintain independence longer. Our neurologists will work with you to explain Parkinson’s disease clearly and plan for future needs with personalized treatment.
The hardest part of Parkinson’s disease can vary by person, but many people find the loss of independence or changes in movement and speech to be especially challenging. It’s not just physical—Parkinson’s can also affect mood and energy levels. At Brain & Spine Specialists, we’re here to support the whole person, not just treat the symptoms, with compassion, education, and coordinated care.
Parkinson’s symptoms may worsen over time, but certain factors can make them feel more intense—such as stress, lack of sleep, illness, or missed medications. Staying on schedule with treatment and maintaining healthy habits can make a big difference. Our team helps patients identify what might be triggering symptom flare-ups and offers guidance on how to manage them day-to-day.
With Parkinson’s disease, it’s important to avoid skipping medications, being inactive, or isolating from others. These can all make symptoms worse or lead to falls, stiffness, or emotional challenges. Instead, regular movement, good nutrition, social connection, and working closely with your care team can improve quality of life. We’ll walk with you every step of the way to help you feel supported and informed.
Entertaining someone with Parkinson’s can involve activities that are enjoyable and safe—like listening to music, doing light exercises, puzzles, or spending time outdoors. Gentle movement, creativity, and social interaction all support well-being. Everyone’s abilities and interests are different, so the best approach is to focus on what the person enjoys and feels comfortable doing. Our care team can help families find engaging, Parkinson’s-friendly activities that match each stage of the condition.