Plain English Meaning

A long-term brain condition that slowly damages the nerves controlling movement, causing shaking hands, stiff muscles, and slower, less steady motion over time.

Full Definition

A progressive neurological disorder caused by the gradual loss of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain, leading to tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movement, and impaired balance and coordination. It is one of the medical conditions specifically disqualifying for FAA medical certification unless a special issuance authorization is granted.

Context Anchor

Seen when studying FAA medical certification requirements and health conditions that may affect a pilot's ability to safely operate an aircraft.

Derivation

Named after Dr. James Parkinson, the British physician who first described the condition in 1817 in his work 'An Essay on the Shaking Palsy.' Knowing it is a 's name, not a descriptive term, helps avoid guessing at meaning from the word itself.