[Dr. C]

I am one of those with this PD symptom. It is often part of my worst days. Currently writing a series of column to address this fascinating effect of PD.  The series is not labeled as such because we are a news service with restraints on format. So, in such cases I divide the problem onto smaller pieces, each being a part of the whole larger problem. This is done also in the book “Possibilities with Parkinsons” and may I humbly offer it as a foundation to a better understanding not only of restlessness but also what can be done for relief.  Reading it will help, I think – hard to tell since I’m the author, to clarify the upcoming columns.  The column series already started with my column on seizures. Planning on ten columns, including the seizure one. I have found ways to lessen its impact, not a cure, but it requires a fresh look, a shift in perspective.

[Dr. C]

My research (“Possibilities with Parkinson’s” column) indicates that the more we learn about Parkinson’s the more we discover how much we don’t know.  Research is being done on the early diagnosis and prodromal symptoms of the disease.  The early intervention that I received with levodopa has made a tremendous difference in my current medical symptoms 7 years later.  I advocate for a healthy lifestyle as well — exercise, healthy eating, stress management– to help manage the symptoms.  But I still have progression.  I don’t think PD will be “cured” in the foreseeable future.  There seem to be an increasing number of factors that are producing this disease in many different forms.  Perhaps the medical community can come to understand that there may be a spectrum of symptoms in this disease process and will develop effective treatment — pharma and other — to mitigate the worse of this.  I still hear neurologists say “I diagnose Parkinson’s based on the patient displaying tremors” and “Parkinson’s patients don’t have pain”.  There is so much the PD community can share to help find beneficial treatment.

[Dr. C]

Russell: This document you created is similar to the rehabilitation plans I wrote for people with brain damage (from all types of causes).  My columns, if put all together, would represent my personal rehab plan.  Your document is well thought out and I admire the considered effort applied.  Believe me when I say. “I know how much work went into that”.  Making a rehab plan that includes more than physical exercise, for example diet, social, spiritual, and mental factors, really takes effort and mindfulness.  There is one piece missing, and I have yet to write about it. It is that any rehab plan needs to give consideration to pre-morbid history.  What you did with your brain before the diagnosis effects the outcome of the diagnosis. This was so true with the brain injured folks.  Why is this important?  It is information that helps to guide the design of the rehab plan.  Chat to me anytime if you have questions. Always happy to help another PD warrior.