Rehabilitation in Parkinson's Disease

Abstract

The onset of Parkinson's Disease (PD) has profound implications for the individual and their family, impacting on employment if of working age, retirement plans and personal finances. The gradual erosion of independence shrinks horizons and limits patient and carer options for social interaction. The variability which characterises PD is particularly frustrating to live with and complicates the planning and provision of care. The National Service Framework for Long term Neurological Conditions highlights the importance of "improving access to rehabilitation services so that people disabled as a result of a neurological conditions can achieve and maintain the greatest possible level of independence and social inclusion". Many issues addressed by rehabilitation are common across the spectrum of neurology. PD specific approaches employ externally cued movement strategies to compensate for dysfunction within the brain's autopilot - the basal ganglia. Medication review is integral and management must take account of non-motor as well as mobility related issues. © 2008 Rila Publications Ltd.