Pianist with Parkinson’s?

[Bif1986]

Does anyone here have information, even anecdotal, about a pianist with Parkinson’s? Thanks!

[Xenos]

Hi Bif,

I remember a professional pianist and his wife hoping resuming piano after DBS surgery. I do not know what happened.

[enjoysalud]

Dudley Moore was a well known pianist/composer and became an actor. He was first diagnosed with PD, but later found to have PSP, subsequently died.

[bjmettler]

I am amateur pianist with Parkinson's. Before C/L, I had pretty much given up trying to hit the right keys or keep a beat. Since taking C/L, I have been able to play right where I left off a few years ago. Music calms the soul!!

[Dap1948]

I am a classically trained pianist -PhD, MA, GNSM, ARCM. I was dx with PD eight years ago. I don't play professionallly now, but do still play for an hour a day. I can't play fast trills anymore but can demonstrate to my pupils and still gain much satisfaction and lift my soul. I don't shake when I play! Why are you asking the question?

[Bif1986 in reply to Dap1948]

I play professionally as well. In addition to my PD diagnosis, I’ve been diagnosed with ulnar neuropathy and my hand surgeon wants to perform a nerve release. I’m uncertain which symptoms are from which condition however.

[Dap1948 in reply to Bif1986]

I've looked up ulner neuropathy and see your problem as there is a definite overlap. I would be cautious about going for surgery. Have you seen a psyotherapist for a second opinion?

[Bif1986 in reply to Dap1948]

Thanks for your comments, I really appreciate it. I’ve had months of therapy that haven’t really helped. I’m going to a second movement disorder specialist on Wednesday for a second opinion. My diagnosis is recent and I’m only 32. I have not taken anything for the PD yet so that’s probably the first thing I’ll try.

[Kia17 in reply to Bif1986]

Big1986

Was your diagnosis based on DatScan or your symptoms?

[Bif1986 in reply to Kia17]

DaTscan

[Kia17 in reply to Bif1986]

What are your main symptoms? Any family history of PD or other neurodegenerative diseases?

[Bif1986 in reply to Kia17]

Rigidly and tremor in left arm and hand. Digestive issues.

[Dap1948 in reply to Bif1986]

Yes, try PD meds first. They could remove your rigidity and tremor.

[Kia17]

Any balance problem?/ drooling?/slowness of movements?/ smelling issue?/ pain?/ pins and needles?/

[Bif1986 in reply to Kia17]

Pain only when playing piano for many hours. It’s localized pain under my left shoulder blade.

[Kia17 in reply to Bif1986]

How significant is your DatScan? Can easily see the reduced uptake of radioactive tracer in right side of the Substantia Nigra (SN)?

[Bif1986 in reply to Kia17]

It’s a period as opposed to a comma. Very full and colorful but still not the same as the other side.

[Bif1986 in reply to Kia17]

I do show dopamine loss consistent with that side of my body.

[Kia17]

Get a second even third opinion from a Movement Disorders consultant.Reading DatScan sometimes is hard. Please keep us informed.