Parkinson Pains

When I have mentioned Parkinson pains to people and even some doctors, I've been met with the comment that Parkinson's doesn't hurt. I think it would be fair to say that most patients suffering Parkinson's would disagree, and that an amount of pain is down to the disease itself. Pain can even be one of the early symptoms or may show up later as the disease progresses, often appearing on the side of your body that is effected the most.

Pains in muscles can be anything from an aching to a burning sensation. Skeletal sharp pains may be caused from a nerve or nerve root, that pulse or radiate which is often a result of dyskinesia. Those uncomfortable continual jerky movements, will eventually have an effect on joints, the strain of which results in pain.

Pain killers may be prescribed, but alternative methods which may help include: massage, therapeutic ultrasound, strengthening exercises, and in some cases, acupuncture. Yoga and Tai Chi also can prove beneficial which helps alleviate muscle stiffness and rigidity, and breathing exercises which also help relaxation improving one's  posture. Regular exercise is fundamental in maintaining mobility, and if attending a class especially for Parkinson's patients, the added social benefits are immeasurable.

I'm a frequent visitor to the hospital and as absurd as it may sound, I think of it as my "second home". I guess this may seem kind of sad, but looking on the positive side, it may give you an idea of how well I am taken care of by the dedicated and highly trained professional staff. I've written this week for The Huffington Post about an incident that happened to me in hospital some years ago, so if you'd like to read something light take a look at "No Sense Of Direction".