Can Parkinson’s Go Into Remission?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that primarily affects movement, but can also impact mood, cognition, and other non-motor functions. A common and hopeful question many patients and families ask is: Can Parkinson’s go into remission?

Understanding the nature of the disease and what remission means in this context is key to managing expectations and exploring strategies for better quality of life.

Can Parkinson’s Go Into Remission?
In the traditional medical sense, Parkinson’s disease does not go into remission. Unlike some illnesses such as certain cancers or autoimmune diseases, where remission can mean a complete or temporary disappearance of symptoms, Parkinson’s is a chronic, progressive condition. This means the disease generally advances over time, and currently, there is no cure that halts or reverses its underlying neurodegenerative processes.

However, some people with Parkinson’s do experience periods where their symptoms improve or stabilize. These temporary improvements can result from optimized treatment, lifestyle changes, physical activity, and other supportive therapies. While not remission in the strictest medical definition, these episodes can feel like a “remission” to those experiencing better mobility, less tremor, or improved mood and energy.
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There have also been rare cases where people report long-term improvements after specific interventions, such as deep brain stimulation or lifestyle overhauls. Yet these are exceptions, not the rule, and more research is needed to understand why this occurs in some individuals and not others.

Living Well With Parkinson’s Despite the Lack of Remission
Although Parkinson’s doesn’t go into remission in the classic sense, many people live fulfilling, meaningful lives by actively managing their condition. Treatment plans often include a combination of medication (such as carbidopa-levodopa), exercise, physical therapy, speech therapy, and psychological support. In fact, regular physical activity has been shown to slow progression and significantly improve symptoms in many individuals.

For residents of Southwest Florida, support is close to home. The Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) has been providing effective programs and services for over 25 years. These programs aim to educate, enrich, and empower individuals and families touched by Parkinson’s disease and related neurological conditions.

Each week, PASWFL offers:

• More than 25 free programs and support groups
• Resources for both individuals with Parkinson’s and their care partners
• No-cost access to educational, wellness, and therapeutic activities

Membership is free and open to all who are affected by Parkinson’s in the region.
Join the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida Community
If you or someone you love is navigating Parkinson’s disease, don’t do it alone. PASWFL offers a caring and knowledgeable community to help you live your best life, even in the absence of a cure.

• Click here to sign up for their free newsletter.
• Click here to become a member at no cost.

For more information, visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org.