Parkinson’s disease is caused by a dysfunction of the basal ganglia part of the brain. There is a lack of blood flow in the prefrontal cortex of the brain. There is evidence that an over activity of stress hormones caused by a lack of REM sleep contributes to causing Parkinson’s. The condition is characterized by muscle contractions, tremor and rigidity. There is a shuffling gait, less arm swinging while walking and an unchanging facial expression referred to as “mask-like.” Each person is affected differently and to different degrees and their ability to perform movements may vary from one day to the next.
Parkinson’s primarily affects people over age 50. The onset is gradual and it is not a fatal disease.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Paralysis agitans
- Shaking palsy
- Secondary Parkinson’s
- Lower-body Parkinson’s
Symptoms:
- Shuffling gait
- Abnormal arm swinging while walking
- Lack of expression on face
- Tremor
Signs to look for:
- Diagnoses
- Foot drag
- Tentative balance
- Shuffling gait with little arm swing
- Expressionless face
Possible Causes:
- Lack of blood flow in the prefrontal cortex of the brain with varying theories of what causes the reduced blood flow
Goals:
- Address posture and balance issues
- Control motion of the feet
- Improve gait
- Make footwear for exercise comfortable
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- For Smart footwear, wear shoes with titanium springs
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Go barefoot on a minimal basis only
Other:
It is common to find bracing used to create more stability
Activities:
- Medical treatment
- Regular exercise program that promotes increased strength and circulation in lower extremities
- Rotation of weight bearing and non-weight bearing exercising, such as walking (weight bearing) with swimming and bicycling (non-weight bearing)
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Text: A. Decker, S. Albert, Contemporary Pedorthics, Parkinsons.medical-information.org, ParkinsonsDiseaseCure.com