How Does Parkinson Disease Affect the Muscular System?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is often recognized for its impact on movement, but the deeper question remains: how does Parkinson disease affect the muscular system? Understanding this connection is key to managing symptoms and improving quality of life for those living with PD. ​

The Connection Between Parkinson’s Disease and Muscle Function
To understand how Parkinson’s affects the muscular system, it’s important to know that the disease primarily targets the nervous system—specifically, the brain’s ability to produce dopamine. Dopamine is a critical neurotransmitter that helps control smooth, coordinated muscle movements. As dopamine levels decline, the ability of the brain to send accurate signals to the muscles is compromised.

This leads to many of the hallmark motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, such as:

• Muscle Rigidity: One of the most common early symptoms, rigidity is characterized by stiffness in the muscles, which can occur in the arms, legs, neck, or trunk. This stiffness can limit range of motion and make everyday movements difficult.
• Tremors: These involuntary muscle contractions, often starting in the hands or fingers, are perhaps the most recognized symptom. The tremor is typically present at rest and may lessen during movement.
• Bradykinesia (Slowness of Movement): People with PD often experience a noticeable slowing of movements, making routine tasks time-consuming and difficult. This is directly related to impaired muscle activation and coordination.
• Postural Instability and Gait Changes: Parkinson’s can affect balance and posture, often leading to a stooped stance or shuffling walk. Muscle weakness and poor coordination contribute to these changes, increasing the risk of falls.

How Does Parkinson Disease Affect the Muscular System Over Time?
As PD progresses, its effects on the muscular system can become more pronounced. Muscles may become more rigid, tremors may intensify, and coordination may decrease. These changes not only make movement harder but can also cause discomfort, fatigue, and pain due to the constant muscle tension and decreased mobility.
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Additionally, PD can affect facial muscles, leading to a reduced range of expression known as “masked face,” and throat muscles, which can impact speech and swallowing.
Physical therapy, exercise, and certain medications can help manage muscular symptoms. Activities like yoga, tai chi, and aquatic therapy are often recommended to help maintain flexibility and strength.

Support and Resources from the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida
Living with Parkinson’s can be challenging, but no one has to do it alone. For over twenty-five years, the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) has provided effective programs and services that improve the quality of life, educate, enrich, and empower our Southwest Floridians touched by PD and related neurological diseases.

Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups for individuals with PD and their care partners. These include wellness classes, exercise programs, educational events, and more—all designed to support muscular health and overall well-being.
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There are no fees associated with becoming a member, and the membership application is available online at www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org.

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