Are There Two Different Types of Parkinson's Disease?

When someone hears the term "Parkinson’s disease," it may seem like a single, uniform condition. However, the question “Are there two different types of Parkinson’s disease?” often arises, especially as individuals begin to learn more about how it affects people differently.
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While Parkinson’s disease (PD) itself is classified as a single diagnosis, there are two primary clinical types based on symptoms, which can lead to very different experiences for patients.

Are There Two Different Types of Parkinson’s Disease?
Yes, Parkinson’s disease is often categorized into two main subtypes based on the predominant motor symptoms experienced by the individual:
1. Tremor-Dominant Parkinson’s Disease (TD-PD)
This type is characterized mainly by tremors, especially when the muscles are at rest. People with TD-PD may have mild bradykinesia (slowness of movement) and rigidity, but tremor is the most noticeable and persistent symptom. This form tends to progress more slowly and may respond well to medication for a longer period.
2. Akinetic-Rigid or Postural Instability Gait Difficulty (PIGD) Type
This subtype presents with stiffness (rigidity), balance problems, and difficulty walking. People with this form are more prone to falls and may experience a faster progression of the disease. Unlike tremor-dominant Parkinson’s, PIGD can have a greater impact on daily functioning earlier in the disease course.
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Some individuals may not clearly fit into either category, especially as the disease progresses and symptoms overlap. That’s why understanding Parkinson’s as a spectrum is more accurate, even though these two types help guide treatment and symptom management strategies

Why These Distinctions Matter
Knowing the type of Parkinson’s someone has can help tailor their treatment plan. For example, those with tremor-dominant PD may benefit from different medication dosages or even surgical interventions like Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), while people with PIGD might need earlier intervention with physical therapy and balance training.

Regardless of type, support and education are essential to managing the disease effectively. That’s where community organizations can play a powerful role.
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Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida: Empowering the Community
The Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) has been a vital source of support for over twenty-five years, offering comprehensive programs and services to individuals affected by Parkinson’s and related neurological conditions.

Each week, PASWFL provides more than 25 free programs and support groups for people with Parkinson’s and their care partners. These include exercise classes, speech therapy, counseling sessions, and educational seminars—all designed to enhance quality of life and build a supportive community.

Membership is completely free, and all services are accessible to residents across Southwest Florida. Whether newly diagnosed or living with Parkinson’s for years, individuals can find valuable resources, guidance, and connection through PASWFL.

• Click here to sign up for the PASWFL newsletter
• Click here to become a member for free

For more information, visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org.