Movement Disorders - Essay Example

The condition being described in this case is drug-induced Parkinson's disease (DIP). This is a specific disorder that results in symptoms that are commonly associated with Parkinson's disease cases that are causally unrelated to pharmaceuticals, as described in the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (2004). Some of these indicators include bradykinesia, tremors, and intermittent rigidity. Jim began to experience the symptoms after being prescribed an antihypertensive drug that is known to be associated with DIP (Rao, Hofmann, & Shakil, 2006), and they continued to persist a year after discontinuing the treatment. The neurological assessment determined that there were no errors in gait, EEG, or MRI, which solidifies the identification of DIP as opposed to the traditional form of Parkinson's disease.

All forms of Parkinson's disease are associated with the degeneration of neurons in the substantia nigra area of the midbrain. Neurons in the substantia nigra extend to the subcortical corpus striatum as a part of the movement coordination process. It is possible that the most important function of these cells is producing the neurotransmitter dopamine. This substance is vital for the execution of many processes, including those related to memory, concentration, emotions, fight or flight responses, and perception, but an influence on movement is the key characteristic of dopamine that is compromised by Parkinson's disease. As the dopamine-producing neurons of the substantia nigra are gradually impaired by degeneration, the neurotransmitter becomes unavailable for use in the message delivery systems that rely on the substance, especially those that are functionally related to movement. The deficiency results in dysfunctional activity in the nerves that control muscle movements, and the manifestation of the physical symptoms of Parkinson's disease and DIP. It is not yet known how cells are initially damaged, although the presence of protein aggregates known as Lewy bodies may be causing the fundamental physical impairment. Still, it is not clear how or why the clumps originally form.

Jim displayed multiple symptoms of PID, as described in this case, all of which are physical manifestations of neurological complications. The three key symptoms of Parkinson's disease were present in Jim's case, all of which can be traced back to cell death in the substantia nigra. Tremors are the most common and earliest developing feature of these disorders and are usually accompanied by a slowness in movement execution known as bradykinesia, as well as excessive rigidity. Each of these symptoms emerges due to an impairment in the dopamine-mediated transfer of information from the deteriorating substantia nigra to the muscles through an associated motor pathway that prominently features the striatum.

In addition to the pharmaceutical and stimulation treatments referred to in the case, Jim could potentially benefit from supportive and complementary methods (Okun, 2012). There are many types of these techniques that can address either specific or multiple components of the impairment experienced by the patient. Physical rehabilitation can be a useful treatment for several issues, including speech problems and muscle control restrictions. Psychological rehabilitation would also be appropriate to address potential cognitive decline. Exercise is another complementary treatment for DIP or Parkinson's disease, helping to strengthen muscles that would otherwise atrophy. Exercise also provides the mental and bodily benefits that are usually associated with regular physical activity. Unfortunately, none of these treatments will slow or stop the progression of the disease, though they can certainly help Jim cope with the symptoms.