Parkinson’s Disease

Definition

What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease, medically referred to as Morbus Parkinson or Parkinson’s syndrome, is a chronic, progressively worsening neurological disorder that primarily affects the central nervous system. The definition of Morbus Parkinson describes a condition in which there is a gradual loss of nerve cells in the brain, particularly in the substantia nigra. These nerve cells are responsible for producing the messenger substance dopamine, which plays a central role in controlling movement. Parkinson’s can therefore be summarized as a disorder of movement regulation with a wide range of motor and non-motor complaints.

Due to the lack of dopamine, signal transmission between the brain and the muscles is impaired. The result is typical Parkinson’s symptoms such as slowed movement, muscle stiffness, and tremor. In addition to these classic motor abnormalities, numerous non-motor Parkinson’s symptoms can also occur, including sleep disturbances, autonomic complaints, or psychological changes. This variety makes Parkinson’s syndrome a complex clinical picture with a very individual presentation.

The diagnosis of Parkinson’s is based on clinical symptoms, neurological examinations, and additional tests. Structured tools such as a Parkinson’s diagnosis questionnaire can be helpful in systematically recording early signs of Parkinson’s and their symptoms. Imaging procedures support the diagnosis of Parkinson’s, but do not replace specialist medical assessment.

Parkinson’s occurs worldwide. Morbus Parkinson epidemiology includes the fact that the disease usually begins at older age. The typical age of onset is over 60. However, younger people can also be affected. Parkinson’s disease is not curable, usually runs a chronic course, and progresses slowly. The course of Morbus Parkinson can remain stable for many years or worsen in phases.

Even though Morbus Parkinson is not immediately life-threatening, its progression has a significant impact on quality of life. With an individually tailored Parkinson’s therapy—consisting of medication, movement, training, and supportive approaches—symptoms can be alleviated and everyday life can be improved over the long term.

Causes of Parkinson’s disease

The exact causes of Morbus Parkinson are still not fully understood. Experts assume that Parkinson’s disease is multifactorial, meaning several causes interact. Genetic factors as well as environmental influences and age-related processes play a role in the development of Parkinson’s. Especially in idiopathic Parkinson’s syndrome, the most common form, the specific cause remains unknown.

About 75% of those affected suffer from idiopathic Parkinson’s syndrome (IPS). “Idiopathic” means that no clear cause is known. In IPS, a protein aggregation disorder occurs in which proteins accumulate pathologically in nerve cells, causing them to die prematurely. This leads to a neurodegenerative Parkinson’s disease; however, the precise trigger is still unknown.

The remaining 25% of Morbus Parkinson patients have known causes:

• ◉ Familial (genetic) Parkinson’s syndrome: There is an inherited predisposition, often with early onset before the age of 40. This is also referred to as juvenile Parkinson’s syndrome when the disease occurs at a young age.
• ◉ Secondary (symptomatic) Parkinson’s syndrome: Environmental factors, medications, circulatory disorders, or metabolic disturbances can trigger Parkinson’s disease.
• ◉ Atypical Parkinson’s syndrome: Other neurodegenerative diseases cause similar Parkinson’s symptoms due to pathological protein deposits.

Central to Morbus Parkinson is the progressive loss of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain. This degeneration leads to a lack of dopamine, impairing movement control. This process is largely responsible for the development of typical Morbus Parkinson symptoms. Why these nerve cells die is the subject of intensive research. Overall, the causes of Morbus Parkinson show that it is a complex interaction of several factors. This interaction influences not only the onset but also the course of Parkinson’s. A better understanding of Parkinson’s causes is crucial in order to further develop future approaches for targeted Parkinson’s treatment and effective Parkinson’s therapy.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s symptoms are diverse and can differ significantly from person to person. Among other factors, they depend on the individual course of the disease, age at onset, general health, and lifestyle. Parkinson’s symptoms usually develop gradually and slowly increase over the course of the disease. A Parkinson’s diagnosis cannot be made based on a single sign; it requires careful neurological evaluation, as many Parkinson’s symptoms can also occur in other diseases.

Typical of Morbus Parkinson is a combination of motor and non-motor complaints. In addition to the well-known movement disorders, cognitive, emotional, and autonomic signs also play an important role. The following points show common Morbus Parkinson symptoms—however, the list is not exhaustive, as the symptom pattern can vary greatly between individuals:

• ◉ Slowed movement (bradykinesia): One of the key symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Movements become increasingly difficult and appear slowed or shuffling.
• ◉ Muscle stiffness (rigidity): Increased muscle tension, often associated with pain. This feature is also referred to as a hypokinetic-rigid syndrome.
• ◉ Tremor (shaking): Frequent trembling of the hands or arms at rest, a classic sign of Morbus Parkinson symptoms.
• ◉ Fatigue: A common but often overlooked symptom. It can be described as an unpleasant feeling of loss of energy that makes daily activities harder to perform.
• ◉ Gait and posture disorders: Shuffling gait, so-called “tripping steps.”
• ◉ Balance problems: Increased risk of falls as Parkinson’s progresses.
• ◉ Early Parkinson’s symptoms: Reduced sense of smell, tiredness, sleep problems, or constipation can occur years before motor complaints.
• ◉ Autonomic symptoms in Parkinson’s: Blood pressure fluctuations, increased sweating, digestive problems, or cardiac arrhythmias.
• ◉ Speech and swallowing disorders: Quiet, monotone speech as well as swallowing difficulties, especially later in the course of Morbus Parkinson.
• ◉ Cognitive impairment: Problems with concentration and memory, slowed thinking. Over time, Morbus Parkinson dementia may develop.
• ◉ Psychological changes: Depression, anxiety disorders, changes in character or personality changes can occur in Parkinson’s. In some cases, aggressive behavior may be observed.
• ◉ Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or noticeable nocturnal movements.
• ◉ Micrographia: Handwriting becomes increasingly small and cramped.
• ◉ Masked face (hypomimia): Reduced facial expression with a fixed, rigid look.
• ◉ Pain: Muscle and joint pain or nonspecific pain without a clear cause.
• ◉ Smell disorders (hyposmia): Markedly reduced or absent sense of smell, often one of the early symptoms of Parkinson’s.
• ◉ Sexual dysfunction: Reduced libido or erectile dysfunction as part of Parkinson’s disease.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease often change over time and may become more pronounced in phases, for example during episodic deterioration. Early recognition of initial symptoms and targeted Parkinson’s treatment can help alleviate complaints and maintain quality of life in the long term.

Conventional therapies – what helps with Parkinson’s disease?

Various conventional therapy approaches are available to treat Parkinson’s disease. The goal is to alleviate symptoms—especially slowed movement, muscle stiffness, tremor, shuffling steps, balance disorders, and fatigue—and to improve quality of life. The following overview shows established Parkinson’s therapy options. The list is not exhaustive, as different measures may be appropriate depending on the course of Morbus Parkinson, severity, and comorbidities. A combination of several forms of therapy is often recommended. Medical advice from a specialized neurologist is crucial in order to find the most suitable Parkinson’s treatment for the individual case.

• ◉ Drug therapy: Special Parkinson’s medications to improve mobility and relieve tremor and rigidity.
• ◉ Physiotherapy: Targeted exercises to strengthen, stretch, and improve balance and coordination.
• ◉ Occupational therapy: Support with daily activities, fine motor training, and adapting aids and the environment.
• ◉ Exercise therapy / sport: Regular physical activity strengthens endurance, strength, and mobility and can positively influence the course of Parkinson’s.
• ◉ Speech and swallowing therapy: For dysarthria or dysphagia, targeted exercises help improve speaking, articulation, and swallowing function.
• ◉ Psychotherapy / cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps coping with chronic complaints, depression, or anxiety.
• ◉ Relaxation techniques: Breathing exercises, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation reduce stress, which can worsen symptoms in Parkinson’s.
• ◉ Nutritional adjustments: A balanced diet supports general health and can help protect against over-acidification.
• ◉ Education and self-management: Information about the course of the disease, relapse prevention, and everyday techniques strengthens self-efficacy.
• ◉ Assistive devices: Walking aids, orthopedic insoles, rollators, or technical support increase safety and mobility.
• ◉ Complementary therapies: Yoga, Tai Chi, aquatic therapy, or stretching promote balance, mobility, and well-being.
• ◉ Symptom-oriented therapies: Targeted treatment of sleep disorders, pain, or autonomic symptoms.
• ◉ Additional physical therapies: Massage, heat or cold applications, and electrotherapy to relieve muscle stiffness and pain.
• ◉ TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation): Electrical impulses can improve muscle control and reduce pain.
• ◉ Balance and gait training: Special exercises promote stability, reduce fall risk, and support smoother gait dynamics.

Conventional Parkinson’s therapy pursues a clear goal: to relieve symptoms, preserve function, and improve quality of life in the long term.

kybun mode of action – what helps with Parkinson’s disease?

kybun products target precisely where many challenges in Parkinson’s disease begin: movement disorders, muscle stiffness, tremor, reduced coordination, and increased energy expenditure in everyday life. Thanks to the elastic-springy sole, kybun shoes gently relieve the musculoskeletal system while at the same time stimulating natural, active movement. This combination can help with Parkinson’s symptoms by releasing muscular tension, gently mobilizing joints, and promoting circulation. The deliberate instability on the elastic-springy material particularly activates deep muscles, which can contribute to better posture and reduced coordination and balance disorders. The cushioning property of the sole also supports the joints and may help reduce movement complaints in Morbus Parkinson. In this way, kybun products offer an approach to actively support the course of Morbus Parkinson symptoms. The most important modes of action of kybun products in Parkinson’s are outlined below.

• ◉ Promoting movement and reducing sedentary behavior

  Regular movement and reducing sedentary activities are key factors in supporting Parkinson’s treatment. Studies show that physical activity can positively influence Parkinson’s symptoms such as slowed movement, muscle stiffness, and shuffling steps. The elastic-springy kybun products promote enjoyment of movement. Dynamic standing and walking on kybun materials gently activates the entire musculoskeletal system while simultaneously relieving it. Continuous muscle activation improves circulation, releases tension, and strengthens body awareness. At the same time, it helps reduce sitting time—an important aspect of improving quality of life with Parkinson’s.

• ◉ Activation and strengthening of the musculature

  The elastic-springy material of kybun products supports muscular activation and strengthening in a gentle way—crucial in Parkinson’s, where muscle stiffness, hypokinesia, and reduced stability often occur. When walking and standing on the unstable surface, small compensatory movements are performed to maintain balance. In particular, the deep muscles in the feet, legs, pelvis, and trunk are trained—exactly those muscle groups important for stability, posture, and coordination. Gentle activation can release tension, promote circulation, and improve body awareness.
  The small compensatory movements on the elastic-springy material also lead to a low-threshold muscle tone throughout the body. Through active musculature, movement execution can become more precise, reducing slowed movement (bradykinesia) as well as gait and posture disorders.

Balance and EMG

Balance ability was measured with a force plate by tracking the movement of the body’s center of gravity from front to back (ant-post) and side to side (med-lat) while standing. In parallel, electromyography (EMG) recorded muscular activity.

• ◉ Strengthening balance

  A central problem in Parkinson’s disease is coordination and balance disorders, which increase the risk of falls and can limit independence in everyday life. kybun products specifically support balance abilities through the combination of an elastic-springy sole and a slightly unstable surface. When walking and standing on this material, numerous small, unconscious compensatory movements must be performed to maintain balance. This continuous activation trains the deep muscles of the feet, legs, pelvis, and trunk—exactly those muscle groups important for stable posture and safe movement. At the same time, gentle movement on the dynamic surface promotes coordination between the brain, muscles, and joints, which is particularly beneficial as Parkinson’s progresses.
  With regular training on kybun products, balance can improve noticeably. This reduces the risk of falls, supports smoother gait dynamics, and strengthens confidence in everyday life. Even with mild Parkinson’s symptoms such as shuffling steps or gait insecurity, targeted balance promotion offers an effective complement to medication or therapeutic measures.

• ◉ Delaying force impact through a cushioning effect

  Hard floors transmit shocks to the knees, hips, and spine with every step. The elastic-springy sole of kybun products delays the point at which maximum force impact occurs. This gives the muscles more time to adjust to the load and respond actively.
  For people with Parkinson’s disease, this effect is particularly advantageous: the delayed loading supports muscle control, improves stability while walking, and reduces the risk of abrupt improper loading. At the same time, joints, tendons, and fascia are relieved, enabling more joint-friendly, safer, and smoother locomotion—especially in cases of coordination and balance disorders and shuffling steps over the course of Parkinson’s.

• ◉ Natural foot roll thanks to muscle activation

  With Parkinson’s disease, walking can be impaired by muscle stiffness, shuffling steps, or balance disorders. The kybun sole supports a natural rolling motion of the feet from the heel via the midfoot to the base of the big toe through delayed force impact and muscle activation. This distributes the load more evenly and can reduce coordination and balance disorders. Controlled activation stabilizes movement and promotes a smoother gait. This can reduce typical Parkinson’s symptoms such as gait insecurity and uneven movement patterns.

• ◉ Optimized pressure distribution

  kybun products evenly surround the sole of the foot and improve pressure distribution when standing and walking. This relieves muscles, tendons, joints, and fascia and supports posture. This can help reduce symptoms such as muscle fatigue or hypokinesia in Parkinson’s disease and make movement feel more comfortable. In addition, the enlarged load-bearing surface increases the standing area. Especially in Parkinson’s, where gait insecurity is a common symptom, this can contribute to greater stability and safety when standing and walking.

• ◉ Care and protection of the fascia

  Fascia also play an important role in Parkinson’s disease for mobility, force transmission, and stability. The elastic-springy kybun soles provide gentle, even loading, preserve fascial function, and support stability while walking. This reduces tension, improves body awareness, and contributes to a smoother, safer gait.

• ◉ Promoting circulation through higher movement activity

  Walking and standing on kybun products increases natural movement activity, activates muscles, and improves circulation. Better microcirculation promotes the supply to muscles, joints, and fascia, supports regeneration, and can positively influence typical Parkinson’s symptoms such as muscle stiffness, shuffling steps, or fatigue.

Usage tips for Parkinson’s disease

Before wearing kybun shoes for the first time, a few notes should be considered. Correct use can help relieve symptoms of Parkinson’s disease such as muscle stiffness, shuffling steps, balance disorders, or fatigue and promote mobility in everyday life.

• ◉ Wear kybun shoes at first only as long as your body allows. Muscles, tendons, and the nervous system need time to get used to the elastic-springy surface. Increase wearing time gradually and take breaks if fatigue or mild Parkinson’s symptoms occur. At the beginning, slight muscle fatigue or unfamiliar reactions may occur. Do not be unsettled by the deliberate instability—it is necessary to train balance and improve gait safety.
• ◉ On heel strike, press your heel actively into the elastic-springy material and feel the cushioning of kybun shoes. This reduces the load on muscles, joints, tendons, and fascia and ensures gentle, joint-friendly locomotion. In addition, active heel strike increases muscle activity in the lower extremities, leading to a more optimized and dynamic gait pattern.
• ◉ Roll your foot slowly from the heel via the midfoot to the forefoot. Avoid an abrupt slapping-down of the foot or tense movements—a smooth rolling motion supports coordination and balance and distributes load evenly.
• ◉ At the beginning, walk with shorter steps rather than large lunges. This improves stability and coordination.
• ◉ Gradually try to roll off more over the forefoot. This increases the range of motion of the feet and promotes mobility in all joints. Adapt the rolling motion to your abilities to avoid overuse.
• ◉ Use kybun products consistently, but listen to your body. Continuous, gentle activation of muscles and fascia supports long-term stability, balance, circulation, and mobility—key factors in relieving Parkinson’s symptoms and improving everyday safety.