Understanding Balance Issues in Parkinson’s Disease in Sargodha

Have you ever felt unsteady on your feet, had difficulty staying balanced,

or noticed that simple movements don’t feel as easy as they used to?

If so, you’re not alone.

Many people experience problems with balance and coordination as they get older,

and while this can happen for various reasons,

one important cause could be Parkinson’s disease.

What Is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a condition that affects how the brain controls movement.

It happens when certain cells in the brain, which help you move smoothly, stop working as they should.

This leads to issues like tremors (shaking), stiffness in the muscles, and slowness in movement.

However, one of the most noticeable and concerning symptoms is difficulty with balance and coordination.

How Does Parkinson’s Disease Occur?

Parkinson’s disease happens when certain cells in the brain that produce a chemical called dopamine begin to break down or die.

Dopamine is important because it helps control smooth and coordinated muscle movements.

When these cells stop working properly, the brain can’t send clear signals to the muscles,

leading to the movement problems we see in Parkinson’s.

It is not entirely clear why these cells start to die,

but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to play a role.

Aging is also a key factor, as the risk of developing Parkinson’s increases with age.

Why Does Parkinson’s Affect Balance?

Our ability to stand and walk steadily comes from the brain’s ability to send clear signals to our muscles.

In Parkinson’s disease, these signals become weaker or mixed up.

This can lead to things like:

Unsteady walking: People with Parkinson’s often have trouble taking steady steps. They may shuffle their feet or lean forward, making them more likely to fall.

Difficulty turning: Turning around or changing direction while walking can become tricky, and many people may feel like they could lose their balance.

Freezing: Some people with Parkinson’s may suddenly feel “frozen” in place, where they are unable to move for a few seconds even though they want to.

What Are the General Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease has several common symptoms that people might notice over time.

These include:

Tremors: Shaking, usually starting in the hands or fingers, even when resting.

Stiffness: Muscles feel tight, making it hard to move freely.

Slowed movement: Everyday tasks like walking, getting dressed, or eating can take longer due to slow movements.

Balance problems: As mentioned earlier, maintaining balance can become difficult, leading to a risk of falls.

Changes in handwriting: Writing may become small and cramped, a symptom called micrographia.

Facial expression loss: Some people with Parkinson’s may lose the ability to show facial expressions, which can make them appear emotionless.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

One of the most effective ways to manage balance problems in Parkinson’s disease is through physiotherapy.

They help by:

Improving muscle strength: By strengthening certain muscles, physiotherapy can help people with Parkinson’s stand and walk more confidently.

Balance exercises: Physiotherapists use special exercises to improve balance, which can reduce the risk of falls.

Walking practice: If someone’s having trouble walking steadily, a physiotherapist can teach them safe ways to move around.

Posture correction: Physiotherapists can also help improve posture, which is often affected by Parkinson’s disease. Better posture can make a big difference in overall movement.

If you or a loved one is experiencing balance and coordination problems,

it’s important to get the right help.

Dr. Farjad Afzal is one of the best pediatric and adult physiotherapists in Sargodha,

specializing in treating conditions like Parkinson’s disease.

He has over 12 years of experience helping people regain their strength, mobility,

and balance through personalized treatment plans.

When to See a Doctor

If you’re noticing frequent issues with balance or coordination,

it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor or physiotherapist.

They can help figure out what’s causing the problem and recommend treatments that can help you stay active and reduce the risk of falls.

Remember:

• About 10 million people worldwide are living with Parkinson’s disease, and many of them experience balance and coordination problems.

• Falls are a major concern for people with Parkinson’s. Research shows that people with Parkinson’s are two to three times more likely to fall compared to others in the same age group.

• While there is no cure for Parkinson’s yet, treatments like physiotherapy can make life much easier by helping to manage symptoms.

With the right care and support, you can improve your balance and live a more fulfilling life even with Parkinson’s disease.

Don’t hesitate to consult experts like Dr. Farjad Afzal for guidance and treatment options.

These symptoms usually start gradually and become more noticeable over time.

Recognizing them early and seeking treatment can help manage the condition effectively.