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I've been lurking here on behalf of a non-internet friend of mine (aged late 50s) who was diagnosed PD (99% certain) a year ago. She is a freelance journalist who is obviously worried about how much longer she will be able to work, support and care for herself. She lives alone, and has no immediate family. MADOPAR She's been on the lowest dosage of Madopar for the last year. Will she know when to increase the dosage - are there signs? Does Madopar ever stop being effective? Is there a timescale for symptoms/deterioration? MUSCLE PAIN At the moment the muscles in her right arm are very painful. She did tear her ligaments carrying a heavy camera case some time ago, but is worried that the pain may be related to PD. If so, will her left side eventually be affected as well? PALLIDOTOMY Is there any evidence that pallidotomy should be done in the earlier stages of PD? Is it worth her having a PET scan? Does this show up any more than a MRI scan, e.g the scale of depletion of dopamine? Thanks in advance for all your help. It's been so educational over the last few weeks, and it must be such a lifeline to PWPs and carers - I am touched by the care and support given to everyone by everyone. JLT Slater [log in to unmask] London UK