The MDS publication investigating what is important for quality of life for people living with PD revealed some important considerations 👉 A key finding was that people with PD “looking good” does not necessarily mean they are feeling as good as they could be. Extensive interviews from people living with PD highlighted that when their motor symptoms are worse, this of course impacts quality of life in a negative way. But when motor symptoms are well controlled, this doesn’t

Review of new research about what matters most for quality of life in Parkinson's Disease

What is Deep Brain Stimulation? Deep Brain Stimulation is a procedure often performed to help manage symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. It involves wires being implanted into deep structures in the brain by a neurosurgical team. These wires are connected to an implanted battery (like a pacemaker). How does it help Parkinson’s Disease? Deep Brain Stimulation is an effective therapy for managing Parkinson’s Disease symptoms. It works by delivering electrical currents to sel

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical treatment option for the management of Parkinson’s Disease. DBS is generally recommended when tablet and injectable treatments are not well tolerated or are no longer providing sufficient management of symptoms. DBS involves an implanted brain stimulation device that delivers continuous electric impulses. These impulses have similar impacts on symptoms to oral medication. Implantation is undertaken by a dedicated Neurosurgical te

Brief blog on when individuals living with PD should consider second-line therapy options

Apomorphine Infusion: - Delivered either intermittently or continuous infusion through a small, wearable pump. This pump is connected to a needle that sits under the skin (changed daily). - Allows for rescue injections during “off” periods (when symptoms are most evident) Duodopa (Intestinal levodopa): - This delivers a levodopa gel directly into the small intestine for more consistent medication absorption compared to oral medication. - The device c

Second-line therapy options have been shown to improve motor control, decrease unwanted symptoms such as dyskinesia, and improve overall quality of life. These therapy options include: · Apomorphine Infusion · Intestinal Levodopa Infusion (Duodopa) · Subcutaneous Levodopa Infusion (Vyalev) · Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Each therapy has its benefits and risks. Choice of therapy is guided by both personal preference and advice from your Neurologist. In our

Parkinsons’ disease is linked to a decrease in the brain’s ability to produce dopamine, a chemical that plays a key role in coordinating movement. This loss of chemicals leads to many of the hallmark symptoms of Parkinson’s. First-line treatment for the earlier stages of Parkinson’s Disease generally starts with exercise and oral tablets prescribed as dopamine replacement therapy. While oral medication often remains effective in maintaining symptom control for many years, thi

This is a brief blog on how Parkinson's Disease is diagnosed

What is Young Onset PD? Parkinson’s Disease is classified as young onset when symptoms occur between the ages of 21-49. This is opposed to typical/sporadic PD which, on average occurs between 50-70 years of age. Young onset Parkinson’s Disease accounts for between 10-15% of all cases of PD in Australia. What are the main differences? The main difference is of course, age of symptom onset. In some cases, progression of Parkinson’s symptoms may be slower for those with younge

Welcome to emPowereD! EmPowereD is an educational resource discussing medical, allied health and lifestyle recommendations to support the wellbeing of people living with Parkinson’s Disease. All information found on emPowereD is written and researched by health professionals with extensive experience working with individuals with PD, with the aim of broadening your knowledge on day-to-day things that may improve your management. While there is a wealth of information ava

Seeking support and community when diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson's

A brief educational outline of unintentional weight loss with Parkinon's Disease and it's risks

Brief outline on Parkinson's Disease and Medication absorption

Let's talk about one of the most common non-motor symptoms in Parkinson's Disease – constipation. Constipation affects more than 80% of people living with Parkinson's disease. Like other non-motor symptoms, it often starts years before movement problems appear. Why does this happen? Parkinson's affects the body's automatic functions – including slowing down the digestive system. Other factors also play a role: imbalance of bacteria in the gut, inflammation in the intestines,

Blog series part 2 discussing the importance of gut bacteria and differences for individuals living with PD

Introducing a 5-part blog series all about Parkinson's Disease and the gut

A review on the evidence behind how dancing can help with the management of Parkinson's Disease related symptoms

This blog touches on how common Parkinson's Disease is and highlights the benefits of connecting with and leaning on the Parkinson's Support communities. The message is that you aren't alone in what you are experiencing.

Commonly discussed symptoms of PD are often dominated by visible motor symptoms. But there are many symptoms that are not seen, but felt,...