Stanford PD Community Blog

In March 2022, the Parkinson’s Community Los Angeles hosted a webinar on common gastrointestinal (GI) issues in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and treatment options with gastroenterologist Dr. Wael El-Nachef.  The speaker described gut issues including constipation, bloating, weight loss and malnutrition, poor absorption of medications, reflux, and difficulty swallowing.  Up to 80% of those with PD experience constipation.  The majority of those with PD experience two kinds of constipation.

In March 2022, the Parkinson Society British Columbia hosted a webinar on bone health in Parkinson’s disease (PD) with geriatrician Dr. Naaz Parmar.  Dr. Parmar discussed how osteoporosis is diagnosed and treatment options.  For treatment, there is a focus in reducing the risk of falls.  In Parkinson’s specifically, there is a higher risk of having osteoporosis due to PD itself and treatment with dopaminergic medications.   

On May 17 the Davis Phinney Foundation (DPF) hosted a webinar on Medical Myths and Parkinson’s.  Neurologist Benzi Kluger writes a blog on medical myths.  In this webinar he discussed how to detect medical myths, the effect of unregulated supplements, and debunked myths surrounding cannabis, stem cells, deep brain stimulation, diet, and exercise.

In April 2022, PMD Alliance hosted a webinar with Erica Vitek, occupational therapist (OT), who addressed urinary issues in Parkinson’s disease (PD) including normal bladder function, pelvic floor muscle exercises, and how to support bladder health.  She also delved into practical lifestyle changes that can improve bladder function, and resources for incontinence.  Erica explained some terms such as mixed incontinence, neurogenic bladder, nocturia, and overflow incontinence.

On May 12 the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) hosted a 30-minute webinar on the Pros & Cons of Canes and Walkers.  Teresa Baker, PT, DPT, explained how a cane or walker helps people with balance and stability.  The ‘right’ assistive device is different for each person.  Teresa reviewed the pros and cons of two types of walking stick and four types of walkers before answering a few questions.