Neuropathy in PD
Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a dysfunction of sensory, motor, and autonomic nerves. PN can be felt as skin sensitivity, numbness, prickling or tingling, muscle weakness, or pain. The presence of PN has been noticed in Parkinson’s disease (PD). This comorbidity increases the burden on patients whose motor functions are previously compromised, decreasing quality of life and increasing the risk of falling. Treatment of PN depends entirely on the cause. Although research into the relationship between PN and PD is in early stages, these resources will help you communicate with your doctor to determine PN cause and course of treatment for you.
Online Articles | Podcasts & Webinars | Expert-level Resources
2 Metabolic Pathways May Be Linked to Peripheral Neuropathy Onset in Parkinson’s
By Joana Carvalho. Published by Parkinson's News Today, December 8, 2020
This short article summarizes the study, “Peripheral Neuropathy in de novo Patients with Parkinson’s Disease,” published in the Yonsei Medical Journal. Study results demonstrated a potential role of homocysteine and uric acid on peripheral neuropathy in unmedicated patients with Parkinson’s. However, further long-term studies with a larger sample size will be needed to confirm the findings.
Peripheral Neuropathy and Parkinson's: The Connection
By the Editorial Staff of ParkinsonsDisease.net. Published by Health Union, April 18, 2019
This article briefly explains the peripheral nervous system, peripheral neuropathy (PN), and the research into whether PN is a symptom of Parkinson's Disease, related to treatment medications, or a combination of the two. References are provided by clicking on 'View References' at the end of the article.
Peripheral Neuropathy and Parkinson's Disease
By Rebecca Gilbert, MD. Published by the American Parkinson Disease Association, October 20, 2020
This very clearly written article briefly reviews the nervous systems of the human body before defining peripheral neuropathy (PN), it's symptoms, the prevalence of PN in those with Parkinson's Disease, and determining the cause of PN and most appropriate treatment.
Therapeutic Options for Peripheral Neuropathy in Parkinson's Disease
By Amit Akirov, MD. Published by Neurolgy Advisor, June 15, 2020
A summary of a review article published in Neurological Sciences in May 2020, covering how diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy (PN) is done and treatments for PN in those with Parkinson's Disease.
Exploring Non-Motor Symptoms: Neuropathy, Fatigue, GI Issues
By the Parkinson's Foundation, March 9, 2021
This 1-hour webinar discusses neuropathy, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues and how they may relate to medications, Parkinson’s disease, and/or aging. Evidenced-based treatments for these non-motor symptoms are addressed as well.
Parkinson's Disease and Peripheral Neuropathy
By Peter Podgorny and Cory Toth. Published by Intech Open, March 26th 2014
This chapter of the book A Synopsis of Parkinson's Disease examines the occurrence of peripheral neuropathy in idiopathic Parkinson's Disease, its potential causes, progression, and management.
Peripheral Neuropathy in Parkinson's Disease
By Dion A. Paul, Abdul Rehman M. Qureshi, and Abdul Qayyum Rana. Published by the Journal of Neurological Sciences, May 1, 2020
The results of a comprehensive literature review into the causes of peripheral neuropathy in Parkinson's Disease (both large fiber neuropathy (LFN) and small fiber neuropathy (SFN)), and potential treatments.
Peripheral neuropathy is associated with more frequent falls in Parkinson's disease
By Mélanie L. Beaulieu, Martijn LTM Müeller, and Nicolaas I Bohnen. Published by Parkinsonism & Related Disorders, April 2, 2018
This study found lower-limb peripheral neuropathy is associated with gait difficulties and more falls in PD, making evaluation of lower-limb peripheral neuropathy important in PD. Fall prevention strategies for PD patients should consider peripheral neuropathy. The study findings are independent from several PD-specific factors and diabetes.
Last updated September 2021 by Stanford Parkinson's Community Outreach
