The rigidity and bradykinesia can be the most disabling aspects of the disease. They can impair the person's ability to walk and to do daily activities, such as washing, dressing or using eating utensils. Problems with unsteady balance and posture may make it hard for a person with Parkinson's disease to sit down in a chair or to rise from one. Walking is accomplished with small, shuffling steps and a stooped posture, usually without the normal arm-swinging motions. Bradykinesia can affect the facial muscles, decreasing spontaneous facial expressions and normal eye blinking.

Other symptoms of Parkinson's disease may include:

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Disturbed sleep

• Memory loss

• Slurred or abnormally soft speech

• Difficulty chewing or swallowing

• Constipation

• Impaired bladder control

• Abnormal regulation of body temperature

• Sexual dysfunction

• Cramps, numbness, tingling or pain in the muscles