Parkinson's Disease: A Collaborative Approach to Addressing Motor Symptoms

Course overview

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms. Its rising prevalence and significant impact on patients, caregivers, and healthcare systems make it an important area of focus for a patient-centered, multidisciplinary approach to care. The exact cause of PD remains unknown, but in most cases, it is likely due to genetic and environmental factors. Motor symptoms are the hallmark of PD. The cardinal motor symptoms of PD are bradykinesia, rest tremor, rigidity, and postural instability. Individuals experience unique combinations of symptoms and rates of progression. A multi-pronged approach for patients, with pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, is important because each patient's clinical presentation is unique and symptom onset varies. Increasing awareness of the characteristics, pathophysiology, and nonmotor symptoms of PD; new treatment options; and the roles of interprofessional team members should lead to improved patient understanding of their condition, improved quality of life and symptom control, and increased caregiver awareness.