Newswise — (New York) - Parkinson disease is one of the most common neurologic disorders, drastically changing the lives and careers of many, including actor Michael J. Fox and most recently, lead actor and Oscar-nominee Bob Hoskins. The effects of such a disorder can certainly be overwhelming, not only for the patient, but also for families and caregivers.

Published in conjunction with the American Academy of Neurology as part of the Neurology Now Books™ series, NAVIGATING LIFE WITH PARKINSON DISEASE, contains the most up-to-date information on this disease, providing a helpful guide for patients, caregivers, family members and friends. The book is now available on Amazon and at other major book retailers.

The book combines the expertise of leading Parkinson disease clinical researcher, Sotririos Parashos, MD, PhD, a member of the American Academy of Neurology, and leading physical therapist, Rosemary Wichmann, with the writing skills of journalist Todd Melby.

The authors establish an approachable and understandable tone with question and answer sections as well as practical advice on how to manage the disease in the long-term and available treatments. Specific chapters address the various aspects and concerns that anyone affected by the disease may encounter, ranging from general medications and surgery to specific symptoms, and even a chapter dedicated solely to the care partner. Topics include:

• How to manage balance challenges, hallucinations, confusion, weakness, stress, sleep changes and fatigue• How to deal with apathy, depression and anxiety• How to keep skin in shape and manage weight loss• How to enjoy leisure activities and travel• How to utilize complementary therapies and the power of music and dance• Where a patient can learn more about Parkinson disease

Inclusion of true patient stories both inspire and instruct the reader, allowing for several topics to be addressed that are not often mentioned in physician-directed disease management. These aspects in NAVIGATING LIFE WITH PARKINSON DISEASE ensure that any misunderstandings regarding the disease are addressed, creating a positive yet realistic encouragement for those affected by the disease.________________________________________

About the Authors:Sotirios Parashos, MD, PhD, a member of the American Academy of Neurology, is Clinical Research Lead at Struthers Parkinson's Center, Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital, in Golden Valley, Minnesota. Rosemary Wichmann is Manager and Lead Physical Therapist at Struthers Parkinson's Center. Todd Melby is a freelance journalist whose work has been featured on National Public Radio.

About the American Academy of NeurologyThe American Academy of Neurology, an association of more than 25,000 neurologists and neuroscience professionals, is dedicated to promoting the highest quality patient-centered neurologic care. A neurologist is a doctor with specialized training in diagnosing, treating and managing disorders of the brain and nervous system such as Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, migraine, multiple sclerosis, brain injury, Parkinson disease and epilepsy. For more information about the American Academy of Neurology, visit http://www.aan.com.

NAVIGATING LIFE WITH PARKINSON DISEASEBy Sotirios Parashos, MD, PhD, and Rosemary Wichmann, with Todd Melby,Will be published in paperback by Oxford on October 31, 2012(224 pages | $19.95| Paperback | ISBN: 9780199897780)