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Neurologist located in Marlton, NJ

Parkinson's Disease Specialist

Parkinson’s disease affects approximately 5 to 6 people per 1,000, with men having a slightly higher risk than women. At Marlton Neurology, Sudhir Aggarwal, MD, PhD provides comprehensive diagnosis, personalized treatment, and long-term management to help patients control Parkinson’s symptoms, maintain independence, and enjoy a better quality of life.

If you’re experiencing tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movement, or changes in balance, schedule an appointment online or visit our offic

Expert Care for Parkinson's Disease

Living with Parkinson’s disease can be challenging, but early diagnosis and personalized treatment can help you maintain independence and improve your quality of life. At Marlton Neurology, we’re committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive neurological care every step of the way.

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Parkinson's Disease Q & A

Frequently asked questions about Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease develops when nerve cells in the part of the brain responsible for controlling movement gradually deteriorate. These nerve cells produce dopamine, a chemical messenger that helps coordinate smooth, controlled muscle movement.

As dopamine-producing cells are lost, dopamine levels decline, making it increasingly difficult for the brain to communicate with muscles. Symptoms typically begin after approximately 80% of dopamine-producing nerve cells have been affected.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder, but its rate of progression varies from person to person.

Parkinson's disease is commonly recognized by four primary movement-related symptoms:

  • Tremor – Involuntary shaking, usually beginning in one hand or limb
  • Rigidity – Muscle stiffness that limits movement
  • Postural Instability – Difficulty with balance and coordination
  • Bradykinesia – Slowed movement and reduced facial expression

Tremors often begin on one side of the body before gradually affecting both sides as the disease progresses. Many people experience tremors while at rest, although some develop tremors during movement.

Additional symptoms may include:

  • Difficulty initiating movement
  • Shuffling walk or dragging one foot
  • Stooped posture
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Changes in handwriting
  • Soft, rapid, slurred, or expressionless speech

Because symptoms develop gradually, early evaluation by a neurologist can lead to earlier treatment and improved symptom management.

Some individuals with Parkinson's disease develop Lewy Body Dementia, a condition caused by abnormal protein deposits known as Lewy bodies accumulating in the brain.

An estimated 50–80% of patients with Lewy Body Dementia experience:

  • Memory loss
  • Difficulty making decisions
  • Impaired problem-solving abilities
  • Changes in thinking and reasoning

Early diagnosis allows patients and families to better plan for treatment and ongoing care.

Treatment focuses on reducing symptoms, maintaining mobility, and improving quality of life.

Dr. Aggarwal develops individualized treatment plans that may include medications designed to:

  • Replace dopamine
  • Mimic dopamine activity
  • Increase available dopamine
  • Slow the breakdown of dopamine
  • Reduce neurotransmitters that contribute to tremors

As Parkinson's disease progresses, medication adjustments may be necessary to maintain symptom control.

For patients whose symptoms are no longer adequately controlled with medication or who experience significant medication side effects, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) may be considered.

During a DBS procedure, a neurosurgeon implants electrodes into specific areas of the brain that control movement. These electrodes are connected to a small battery-powered device placed beneath the skin of the chest. The device delivers gentle electrical stimulation that helps reduce symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and slowed movement.

Dr. Aggarwal works closely with each patient to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on their symptoms, disease progression, and overall health.