Acknowledgement
We would like to acknowledge the use of information taken from the Parkinson’s Disease Society fact sheet ‘Falls and Parkinson ’s’ in compiling this information.
Our thanks to Dr W Farid Abdo1for his help in reviewing this article.
Some people with Parkinson’s find their gait becomes impaired, they may walk slowly, shuffle or suffer from freezing. All of these can compromise balance and falls become common - increasingly so as the condition progresses1. Falls typically begin between five to 10 years after onset of the first symptoms.
Falls particularly happen when movement changes suddenly, for example when turning around, or when more than one thing is done at a time, such as carrying an item whilst walking.
But not everyone with Parkinson’s is susceptible to falls, although statistically people with Parkinson's are more likely to fall over than people without. Those who do fall find it tends to be forwards, and occasionally sideways, resulting in bruises, cuts, or even fractures and broken bones. This can cause distress and discomfort and impact on quality of life, so it is important to be aware of the likely causes of falls and learn ways to minimise risks.
Caution! The risk of fractures is increased if falls are frequent, especially if osteoporosis is present. If you fall frequently you may wish to ask your doctor for an osteoporosis assessment and, if osteoporosis is diagnosed, they will be able to either give you specific advice on minimising its effects or refer you to someone who can give such advice.
If you have recently had a fall then, statistically, you are much more likely to have another within the next six months. So it is important that you tell your doctor and carer so that preventative steps can be taken and any injuries dealt with.
Postural instability and freezing are probably the greatest causes of falls. Reduced blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension), impaired eyesight and hazards in the home can also be contributing factors.
Almost half of all people with Parkinson’s suffer from falls2. In a three-month study in 2007 nearly 50% of all patients fell over during this short time period.
A symptom of advanced Parkinson's disease where the person becomes ‘glued’ to the spot for a few seconds or minutes before being able to walk.
See section on Freezing.
A condition in which the bones become progressively less dense and fragile and is the result of a number of different diseases and abnormalities.
Osteoporosis produces dry, brittle bones that may easily crack or collapse and occurs most often in post-menopausal women and elderly men.
Difficulty with keeping the balance steady when standing, sitting upright or walking.
The part of the brain that is responsible for the control of movement. Dopamine, the neurotransmitter that is in short supply in the brains of people with Parkinson's disease, is made in a section of the basal ganglia known as the substantia nigra.
A general name given to drugs that work by increasing the level and promoting the action of dopamine.
The word “cataract” literally means waterfall. It is when the crystalline lens of the eye clouds over and loses transparency, becoming more opaque and making it difficult to see.
Cataracts usually occur in elderly people but can also be caused by injury through inheritance.
Health profession that helps people of all ages who are disabled, ill or aged to remain independent and lead fulfilling lives at home, in work and through leisure pursuits. The methods they use include specific activities and equipment.
See section on Occupational Therapy.
Terms used to describe people who look after or provide support, voluntarily and without payment, to relatives, partners or friends who are ill, aged or disabled.
See section on Carers.
