Muscle pain is common in Parkinson’s and is often caused by stiffness and tension. The right treatment can help relieve symptoms.
Is Muscle Pain Common in Parkinson’s?
Muscle pain is common in Parkinson’s and is often caused by stiffness and tension. The right treatment can help relieve symptoms.
Muscle pain – an underestimated symptom
Parkinson’s disease is best known for its motor symptoms such as tremors, slow movements, and stiffness. But many people living with the disease also experience muscle pain. This can be a significant part of daily challenges and have a major impact on quality of life.
Why does muscle pain occur in Parkinson’s?
Muscle pain in Parkinson’s is often caused by rigidity and increased muscle tension, which are typical of the disease. When the muscles are constantly tense and less flexible, pain and fatigue can easily occur. Slowness of movement also means the body is loaded in an abnormal way, which can lead to secondary pain in the neck, shoulders, back, and legs (1).
How common is it?
Studies show that 40–80% of people with Parkinson’s report various types of pain, and muscle pain is one of the most common forms (2). It can be constant or occur in episodes, sometimes linked to the on/off cycles of medication.
Treatment and relief
There are several ways to relieve muscle pain in Parkinson’s:
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Optimized medication – Adjusting dopamine replacement therapy can reduce stiffness and pain.
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Physiotherapy – Exercise programs and stretching can improve mobility and reduce muscle tension.
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Massage and heat therapy – Can provide temporary pain relief and increase blood circulation.
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Pain-relieving medication – In some cases, additional pain medication may be needed.
When to seek medical care
If muscle pain is persistent, affects sleep or daily functioning, or worsens rapidly, it is important to contact healthcare professionals. Pain should not be dismissed as a “natural” part of the disease, since proper treatment can make a big difference.
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