April 9, 2024
To say that living with Parkinson’s disease is a challenge would be an understatement. However, as we develop a better understanding of this condition, we can develop and improve on methods to manage its complexities.
Our in-depth guide focuses on the symptoms that those with Parkinson’s may face, how they can potentially fight or treat these symptoms, and the research being done to further these treatments. Whether you’re navigating the daily hurdles of Parkinson’s or striving to support someone who is, Gladiator Therapeutics hopes this resource can help you and the Carrick Institute can connect you with the research being done into Parkinson’s.
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease: What It Does to the Body
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects movement first, and then communication. Once someone has developed Parkinson’s, it will continue to develop gradually.
Those who suffer from Parkinson’s often first experience a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand. These tremors have become the most well-known sign of Parkinson’s, but this symptom is only one aspect of its broader impact.
Unpacking the Symptoms of Parkinson’s
To effectively address the challenges posed by Parkinson’s, it’s vital to understand each of its symptoms in-depth.
Motor Symptoms
Motor symptoms affect your motor skills. Motor skills are specific movements of the body’s muscles to perform a task, such as walking or running.
Motor symptoms are the most common signs of Parkinson’s and can be the most limiting. These may include:
- Tremors
- Rigidity
- Bradykinesia
- Postural instability
Among these, bradykinesia is often the most significant barrier to day-to-day activities. It slows movement and can cause a variety of complications. This can include everything from having trouble moving your arm when you walk to having a sudden inability to move.
Non-Motor Symptoms
Non-motor skills include functions such as cognitive, sensory, sleep, emotional, and social abilities. Non-motor symptoms that affect these skills can be just as intrusive and wide-ranging as your affected motor symptoms, such as:
- Sleep disturbances
- Autonomic dysfunction
- Mood disorders
- Cognitive changes
These symptoms can be complex, often requiring a multi-disciplinary approach to management that may include pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies.
Parkinson’s Treatments
There are various treatments to manage Parkinson’s symptoms. Here’s an overview of the weaponry available in the modern armory.
1. Medications and Their Efficacy
Medications for Parkinson’s primarily aim to replenish dopamine levels in the brain. This can be effective in alleviating symptoms for some people, and each drug can have different benefits and side effects.
2. Surgical Interventions
For those whose symptoms have progressed significantly or whose response to medication has become less stable, surgery can offer a more enduring solution. These include:
- Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
- Dopamine-producing cell grafts
Surgery is not for everyone, and the decision to undergo a procedure should be made after careful consideration with a neurologist who specializes in movement disorders.
3. Non-Pharmacologic Approaches
In addition to traditional treatments, non-medication-based therapies can play a key role in managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s.
- Physical therapy
- Speech therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Exercise programs
These non-pharmacologic approaches can complement pharmaceutical interventions, enhance motor function, and improve the overall quality of life.
4. Gladiator Therapeutics Healing Devices
Gladiator Therapeutics uses far infrared technology to facilitate the absorption of energy and the elimination of waste to help cells function normally or even better.
Forging Partnerships in Parkinson’s Care
Collaboration is critical in the endeavor to improve the lives of Parkinson’s patients. Organizations like Gladiator Therapeutics and the members of the Carrick Institute are working together to carry out research and develop innovative therapies.
The Carrick Institute: Pioneers in Integrative and Functional Neurology
The Carrick Institute trains healthcare professionals in the field of clinical neurology. Many of our students have gone on to dedicate their research and practice to Parkinson’s research.
Gladiator Therapeutics’ Role in Parkinson’s Disease Management
Gladiator Therapeutics’ commitment to innovation in the realm of medical devices aligns closely with the needs of Parkinson’s patients:
- Enhancing comfort and mobility with innovative products
- Collaborating with world-renowned neurologists
- Participating in clinical trials
- Providing patient education and support resources
Contact Gladiator Therapeutics to Learn More About Our Healing Products
If you or a loved one are dealing with Parkinson’s, you are not alone in this fight, and a wealth of options is within reach to help manage symptoms and promote well-being. For more information about Parkinson’s disease management, learn more about the Carrick Institute. For more on medical devices developed by Gladiator Therapeutics, contact us today.