Musculoskeletal disorders in patients with Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that causes posture alterations with trunk anteflexion and the flexion of the hip and knee joints, leading to changes in the musculoskeletal system (MS). MS disorders in Parkinson's Disease (PD) are linked to two primary mechanisms: they can be a direct result of the motor symptoms of PD and may also serve as early indicators of the disease. On one hand, clinically significant manifestations such as camptocormia, Pisa syndrome, anterocollis, and hand dystonia can lead to postural alterations and deformities of the fingers as the disease progresses. On the other hand, patients with Parkinson's disease may also develop primary musculoskeletal disorders, including adhesive capsulitis and rotator cuff tendinopathy, which can result in partial tendon ruptures. Additionally, they are at risk for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and pathological fractures. MS disorders are a significant disabling factor in PD patients, requiring an interdisciplinary approach. This approach involves neurologists, orthopedic traumatologists, and rehabilitation therapists to prevent disabling deformities, ensure early diagnosis, and provide optimal therapy. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate orthopedic symptoms in patients with Parkinson's disease and conduct multicenter studies to develop management strategies.