PD Quick Tip - Facial Masking

Facial masking is when you have a blank expression, you aren't able to convey emotions with facial expression. Masking is common with Parkinson's. Medication helped a ton but I still feel my expression shows anger or sadness when I'm calm and happy. Exercise is important, and the facial muscles are no exception. It's very important to exersize your facial muscles. Try exaggerated gestures and say the vowels. AAAAAAAA EEEEEEE I OOOOOOO UUUUUUUUUUUU. And sometimes "Y". Remember to smile BIG!

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Parkinson’s “Off” Time: What It Looks Like, and How to Manage It - MJFF

What does it mean when we say that Parkinson’s can go from “off” to “on” and then back to “off” again? Listen to this Michael J. Fox Foundation podcast as experts discuss these “off” periods — those times when medication can wear off between doses, or are not working optimally, and symptoms can return. This episode will share steps you can take to manage “off” time, including how you can communicate with doctors and care partners about what you’re experiencing and ongoing research to decrease or treat these episodes. 

Host and person with Parkinson's Larry Gifford leads a discussion with:

  • Ashley Rawls, MD, movement disorder specialist at the University of Florida Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases 
  • Soania Mathur, MD, co-chair of MJFF’s Patient Council 
  • Rick Schwartz, person with Parkinson’s and former professional baseball player 
Listen to the panel discussion at The Michael J. Fox Foundation