Parkinson's disease is a degenerative neurological disease that affects approximately one million persons in the United States. It primarily impacts the specific part of the brain that controls movement called the substantia nigra. This degeneration creates a shortage of the brain-signaling chemical (neurotransmitter) known as dopamine, causing impaired movement. Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include trembling (tremor), stooped posture, muscular stiffness (rigidity), short shuffling steps, speaking softly in a rapid tone, poor balance, poor handwriting, …showed first 75 words of 1591 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1591 total…therapy. So, in conclusion, the best defense of a patient against Parkinson’s disease today is a commitment to their drug therapy program and a positive attitude. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Bibliography** References Duvoisin, R. C., & Sage, J. (1996). Parkinson’s disease: A guide for patient and family. Philadelphia: Lippincott-Raven Publishers. Hutton, J. T., & Dippel, R. L. (1989). Caring for the Parkinson patient. Buffalo, NY: Prometheus Books. McGoon, D. C. (1990). The Parkinson’s handbook. New York: W. W. Norton & Company.