muscle weakness

Muscle weakness is an almost universal symptom in Parkinson’s Disease. Or is it? This is actually a topic of some debate. People with Parkinson's certainly perceive muscle weakness, which is attributed to low levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine. However you look at it, the motor related symptoms of PD lead to decreased muscle usage, which compounds the problem, resulting in decreased muscle mass. Strength training exercises for all major muscle groups is a common sense strategy to counter the effects of PD. Grip strength, in particular, has been singled out as a primary indicator of PD progression. (See "The Association ...