The following professionals may be included in the multidisciplinary team (MDT) depending on the country in which you live, and can help you in various ways:
A doctor who is generally the first point of contact for any illness or complaint
You may be referred to a doctor who treats many conditions, but who specialises in Parkinson’s management. In the UK this can either be a neurologist or a Consultant in the Care of the Elderly with a special interest in Parkinson’s
A doctor trained to diagnose, treat and manage patients with neurological disorders (disorders of the nervous system ) such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer's Disease
These are neurologist who have chosen to specialise in movement disorders, Parkinson’s disease being a good example.
In some countries there may be a Parkinson’s Disease Nurse Specialist (PDNS) who can act as a ‘bridge’ between you and the doctor, answering queries or referring you to other professionals within the MDT. Some nurses have been specially trained in Parkinson’s and may be closely involved in aspects of your care, such as medication.
Physiotherapists are trained to manage mobility problems. They can help with improving mobility, exercises, movement strategies (such as getting out of a chair or turning in bed), and overcoming side effects of medication, such as ‘on’ and ‘off’ phases. They can also assist with pain relief using special equipment and massage.
OTs are trained to help you adapt to life with Parkinson’s, enabling you to continue to lead an independent and fulfilling life at home, at work and through leisure pursuits. They can suggest practical aids to help you with various activities and ways to adapt your daily routine and surroundings, ensuring that your environment is safe and user-friendly
SLTs are trained to help you to overcome communication difficulties, particularly problems with speech, swallowing, drooling, eating and drinking.
A dietician advises on a healthy diet and specific dietary needs. They can offer advice on how diet can ease some symptoms, such as constipation. They may also liaise with a speech and language therapist regarding swallowing and eating difficulties.
A person qualified to prepare and dispense drugs, and give advice on prescribed medications.
Sex therapists are trained to provide advice and counselling on all aspects of sexual health and related concerns of both you and your partner.
Trained specialist who can talk with you and your family about emotional and personal matters, and can try to help overcome emotional or psychological reactions to injury or disease.
A medical doctor (MD) who specializes in treating mental health issues and disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
A psychiatrist evaluates a person’s mental health along with his or her physical health and can prescribe medications to treat mental and emotional disturbances.
A specialist nurse who advises on continence problems to help with controlling the bowel, bladder movements and timing.
A podiatrist diagnoses and treats disorders of the feet and advises on the most appropriate footwear to cope with walking problems, such as falls and freezing.
Your first point of contact should be your doctor or, in some countries, a Parkinson’s Disease Nurse Specialist.
Referral procedures depend on the country in which you live and treatment may or may not be accessible though your national health system. If this treatment is not state-funded, you can also book an appointment on a private basis – this means you have to pay for any treatment and assessment you receive.
The Parkinson’s association in your country may also be able to provide information based on members’ experiences. The EPDA website [www.epda.eu.com] contains the contact details for European Parkinson's disease organisations and international Parkinson’s organisations.
Your Parkinson’s association may also advise and provide information and educational opportunities for health professionals.
An important system in the body that involves the brain, spine and the nerves. Responsible for the body’s contacts and responses to the external world and also its internal communication.
See also Central Nervous System
A progressive, neurodegenerative disease that attacks the cells, nerves and transmitters in the brain. This gradually destroys the connections between the brain cells that are essential for normal mental activity resulting in loss of cognitive function such as attention, memory, and language.
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia.
For further information on Alzheimer's:
Physicians specializing in the field of neurology (a branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the nervous system ) are called neurologists and are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage patients with neurological disorders. Most neurologists are trained to treat and diagnose adults with neurological disorders.
Pediatric neurologists, nearly always a subspecialty of pediatrics, treat neurological disease in children.
Neurologists may also be involved in clinical research, clinical trials, as well as basic research and translational research.
Collective name for conditions that affect a person’s abilities to produce and control movement. They include Parkinson’s disease, restless leg syndrome and dystonia.
A condition where it becomes difficult to empty faeces from the bowel or where the stool is small, hard, and difficult or painful to pass.
See section Bowel Problems including Constipation.
A mental state of melancholia, unhappiness or sadness characterized by decreased energy, reduced interest in sex, suppressed appetite, too much sleep or sleep disturbance, a pessimistic sense of inadequacy, a despondent lack of activity, despair, and discouragement.
See section on Depression
The ability to control the timing and process of urination and defecation (bowel movements).
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.
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.
Social Worker
Social workers are trained to help with the social, emotional and financial needs of you, your carer and family. In some countries, state-funded social support may be available and a social worker will be able to help you access available services and any appropriate benefits.