Parkinson's Disease

What is Parkinson's Disease?
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Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement. It develops when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine gradually become damaged.

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Dopamine helps control smooth, coordinated muscle movement. When levels reduce, movement can become slower, stiffer and less controlled.
 

Parkinson’s affects everyone differently, and symptoms usually develop gradually over time.

What causes Parkinson's Disease?
 

The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is not fully understood.

It is linked to:

• Loss of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain

• A combination of genetic and environmental factors

Risk factors may include:

• Increasing age

• Family history

• Exposure to certain environmental factors

Parkinson’s is not contagious and cannot be cured, but symptoms can be managed with medication and rehabilitation.

What does Parkinson's Disease feel like?
 

Symptoms usually develop gradually and may vary from person to person.

Common symptoms include:

• Tremor – often starting in one hand

• Slowness of movement

• Muscle stiffness

• Reduced arm swing when walking

• Smaller steps or shuffling gait

• Balance difficulties

• Changes in posture

Other symptoms may include:

• Fatigue

• Reduced facial expression

• Softer voice

• Difficulty with fine motor tasks

• Increased falls risk

Symptoms may fluctuate throughout the day, especially as medication effects change.

How can physio help?
 

Physiotherapy plays an important role in managing Parkinson’s disease.
 

It works by:

• Improving walking pattern and step length

• Maintaining strength and flexibility

• Reducing stiffness

• Improving posture

• Supporting balance and reducing falls risk

• Helping maintain independence for longer

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to manage Parkinson’s symptoms. Staying active can slow physical decline and improve confidence.

What treatment will Village Physio do?
 

At Village Physio, we provide personalised, home-based physiotherapy tailored to your stage of Parkinson’s and individual goals.

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Treatment may include:

• Gait training to improve walking pattern

• Cueing strategies to overcome freezing

• Strengthening exercises

• Balance training

• Postural correction

• Stretching to reduce stiffness

• Functional practice – stairs, transfers, daily tasks

• Falls prevention strategies

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All sessions are one-hour home visits, allowing time for thorough assessment and meaningful, practical rehabilitation in your own home.

What can I do to reduce my discomfort whilst I wait for an appointment?
 

• Keep moving daily – even short walks are beneficial

• Focus on taking bigger steps when walking

• Practise standing tall to improve posture

• Stretch regularly to reduce stiffness

• Avoid long periods of sitting

• Use mobility aids if you feel unsteady

If you experience sudden changes in symptoms or frequent falls, seek medical advice promptly.