There Are Stark Differences Between Cerebral Palsy and Parkinson’s Disease.
While some of the symptoms of cerebral palsy are also associated with Parkinson’s disease, there are stark differences between the two conditions.
Parkinson’s Disease vs. Cerebral Palsy
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder which usually affects certain individuals over the age of 60. This condition is characterized by movement difficulties such as a shuffling gait, memory problems, tremors and stiffness. Despite the advances made in medicine, there is no definitive test for Parkinson’s, and most individuals who suffer from it may not get a cure.
Parkinson’s is mostly seen in the elderly; however, it’s not unheard of the condition affecting people who are as young as 20. Genetics, environment and stress all play a part in the development of the disorder.
The Biology Behind Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s affects the part of the brain associated with the production of dopamine, a brain chemical partially responsible for movement and motivation. When the cells in this part of the brain begin to die, the brain’s production of dopamine declines. If left untreated, the disorder may progress to a point where the individual moves in a very slow manner, or experiences severe tremors. They may also have difficulty swallowing, moving their limbs and episodes where they experience explosions of anger. Statistics state that 1 million people are afflicted by Parkinson’s in America, and 5 million have the condition around the world.
Fasciculation (Muscle Twitches)
People with Parkinson’s and cerebral palsy alike may suffer from a condition called fasciculation. This is a small and local involuntary muscle twitch that may be idiopathic in nature in most people. In fact, most people who go through instances of stressful periods may get these muscle twitches.
As you may know, people born with cerebral palsy may experience fasciculation quite often. Many people automatically associate this muscle twitch with Parkinson’s disease, and herein lies the confusion.
To further separate the two disorders, remember that cerebral palsy is a motor neuron disorder that occurs due to damage to the developing brain. People who are afflicted with cerebral palsy suffer brain damage during delivery or shortly after birth. Parkinson’s is a degenerative disorder which usually manifests itself much later in life.
I was born with cerebral palsy and recently I went to a neurologist to back my disability support pension application.
After a quick assessment he said I may have Parkinson’s disease as well. So consequently he put me on Kinson. It seems to be helping me with my movements.
Is it possible that kinson is helping with my cp.
I have asked my exercise physiologist if he can see any difference. He has also studied Pd. He can’t see any changes and he believes I don’t have pd.
Another person who does works with me who is qualified as a life coach says she can see a small difference in my movements.
Is it possible that kinson is helping me as I don’t want to continue with the medication unless i need to.
I am seeing the neurologist again at the end of March and my doctor next week.
I would like your opinion please.
If it helps you will you let me know? My son is 2 with cerebral palsy and non-ambulatory. Thank you.
Carbidopa-levidopa helps my husband who was born with cerebral palsy and has developed parkinsonian symptos in the last year. It helps but not all the time. Insomnia is a major issue. Ifanyone has had success with ANY treatment, please let me know.
BABY I DON’T KNOW BUT I WILL BE PRAYING FOR YOU HEAVENLY FATHER I COME BEFORE YOU AND ASK THAT HE / SHE WILL BE HEALED IN THE NAME OF JESUS YOU SAID FATHER WHATEVER WE ASK IN YOUR NAME IT SHALL BE DONE NOTHING IS TO POWERFUL FOR YOU FATHER GOD SO WE ASK IN YOUR NAME THAT THIS PERSON IS HEALED IN THE MIGHTY NAME OF JESUS BY YOUR STRIPES THEY ARE HEALED BE LEAVE THIS AND YOU SHALL BE HEALED IN JESUS .
Hi, my husband has cerebral palsy and was just told he has parkinsons disease as well.
How are you doing since being diagnosed?
Are you still taking that medicine?
Thanks
I have had CP since birth due to the umbilical cord wrapped around my neck. I was a minister, publisher, college professor and dean. I am still teaching. In 2020 I was also diagnosed with Parkinson’s. My son is a doctor and he thought I might have it before I actually got the diagnosis. I can tell you this is not fun. I am sympathetic because you are the first person I have found besides me who has both. I am 62.
My husband has both. He is suffering from severe insomnia. Have you found anything that helps? Please let me know.
Try to find a Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) prescriber in your area. It is quite helpful for PD.
Hi Clarence, my husband also has cerebral palsy (born 1959) and was just diagnosed with having PD.
He just retired from his engineering profession to reduce stress.
Hope you are managing well and have good doctors.
We are in San Diego , California . He is meeting with his doctor next week.
All the best,
Darla Pokorski
Please I am KUSI PRINCE from Ghana. I am twenty-four years and I am having a challenge in controlling my left hand and a little bit challenge on walking I need help especially medicine to treat it I found your information at the internet when I was learning about Parkinson’s disease thank you.