Chapter 1 The Impact of Dance on Parkinson's Disease

Dance classes offer significant advantages for individuals living with Parkinson's disease (PD), a condition affecting nearly 1 million Americans. As the population ages, the prevalence of PD is expected to rise, leading to increased challenges in daily living due to the disease's progressive nature, which impairs motor functions.

Parkinson's disease is among the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders. It is characterized by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra region of the brain, leading to motor control issues. As the disease advances, symptoms such as tremors, postural instability, reduced movement speed, and muscle stiffness become increasingly pronounced. Furthermore, various bodily systems, including those responsible for chewing and bladder control, may also be compromised.