Living with the uncertainty of Parkinson’s

Abstract

Ruth Herman shares her experience of Parkinson’s disease and how health professionals can best support patients through the progression Just over 10 years ago I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. I had suffered for several years from strange bouts of cramp, stiffness, and a very painful back. A badly torn rotator cuff only confused the issue as I put much of my discomfort down to my shoulder or back problems. Before major back surgery the surgeon expressed doubts and quietly suggested a neurological rather than a musculoskeletal issue. Raising the possibility of a life changing condition with such non-alarmist tact was helpful. A colleague along the corridor was more direct but equally careful. Not everybody would have …