What Are the Treatments Required for Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's disease affects the part of the brain which controls muscle movement. This is caused by dying or malfunctioning neurons which normally produce dopamine, a chemical which helps coordinate movements. What causes the neurons to malfunction is unknown. Parkinson's disease usually occurs around age 60 but can affect someone younger.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of Parkinson's disease include shaking or tremors, stooped posture, imbalance, rigid muscles, problems with speech, slowed motion and dementia.

Medicines

• Medicines used to treat Parkinson's disease include antivirals, anticholinergics to control tremors, dopamine agonists which mimic dopamine in the brain and levodopa which is converted into dopamine.

Physical Therapy

• Physical therapy is used to treat those suffering from Parkinson's disease who need to improve mobility, muscle tone and range of motion.

Surgery

• Deep brain stimulation is a surgical procedure used to treat Parkinson's disease. The procedure involves an electrode being planted inside the parts of the brain which control movement. This procedure is used for patients with advanced Parkinson's disease.

Alternative Treatment

• Alternative treatment of Parkinson's disease includes taking the supplement coenzyme Q10 to boost levels of this enzyme in the body. Other alternative treatments are massage therapy to ease muscle tension, and using yoga and tai chi to increase flexibility and balance.