What Happens to the Basal Ganglia in Parkinson's?

When discussing Parkinson’s disease (PD), the term basal ganglia often comes up. But what happens to the basal ganglia in Parkinson's, and why is this part of the brain so important?

The basal ganglia are a group of structures deep within the brain that play a key role in coordinating movement. When these structures are functioning normally, they help the brain control smooth, purposeful motion. In Parkinson’s disease, however, the basal ganglia are disrupted, leading to the motor symptoms that are commonly associated with the condition.

What Is the Role of the Basal Ganglia?
To understand what happens to the basal ganglia in Parkinson’s, we first need to understand what they do. The basal ganglia are made up of several interconnected nuclei, including the substantia nigra, globus pallidus, putamen, and caudate nucleus. These structures form a complex feedback loop with other parts of the brain to regulate movement, posture, and muscle tone.
One of the most important components in this system is the substantia nigra, which produces dopamine—a chemical messenger critical for smooth and coordinated muscle movements.

So, What Happens to the Basal Ganglia in Parkinson's?
In Parkinson’s disease, the dopamine-producing cells in the substantia nigra begin to degenerate. As these cells die, dopamine levels in the brain drop significantly. Without enough dopamine, the communication within the basal ganglia becomes disrupted.
This breakdown in communication leads to:

• Slowed movement (bradykinesia)
• Muscle stiffness (rigidity)
• Tremors
• Postural instability

The basal ganglia essentially struggle to “instruct” the muscles properly, making even simple movements difficult. As dopamine loss progresses, the symptoms of Parkinson’s become more pronounced.

Is There a Way to Support Basal Ganglia Health?
While there is no cure yet for Parkinson’s, treatments like medication (e.g., Levodopa) aim to restore dopamine levels or mimic its action. Other therapies like deep brain stimulation (DBS) can target areas within the basal ganglia to improve motor function.
Additionally, exercise, physical therapy, and community support can make a big difference in quality of life by helping to maintain mobility and slow progression.
PASWFL: Supporting the Parkinson’s Community
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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 Southwest Floridians touched by Parkinson’s and related neurological diseases.
Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups for people with PD and their care partners. These include fitness classes, educational events, art therapy, and much more.
There are no fees associated with becoming a member, and you can apply easily online at www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org.

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