Friday, March 22, 2024

Alternative Cure For Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Disease Alternative Medicine

Alternative Treatments for Parkinson’s Disease

Hope is a powerful thing. Without hope for a better future, the will to live is lost and recovery, no matter what the affliction, is impossible.

Imagine then, being told by your doctor that you have a progressive and degenerative disease that robs you of the ability to control your own body. A disease for which there is no cure.

This is the reality for those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

Hope is offered in the form of medication such as Levodopa. Levodopa acts to restore levels of dopamine in the brain. The lack of dopamine is the primary reason for the symptoms associated with the condition. Since it first began being administered in the 1960’s, it has lessened much of the suffering experienced by millions of people throughout the world, and is recognised as the “gold standard” in medical treatment of the disease. However, it can not completely reverse the symptoms, and like all drugs, is more effective in some than others.

Consequently many have sought hope in alternative treatments. Parkinson’s disease has been a recognised ailment in virtually all cultures since ancient times. Many of these ancient treatments are becoming popular in the west and are increasingly validated by western medicine.

Broad beans– Australian researchers discovered that broad beans are also an extremely effective natural source of L-dopa. The highest concentration of L-dopa is found in the pod so they are most effective when consumed whole.

2002-2012©Parkinson’s Disease Information.

Conversations About Complementary Therapies And Parkinson’s Disease

In this one hour, 15-minute webinar movement disorders specialist Natalia Diaz, MD, talked about how complementary therapies manage symptoms, ease pain, reduce stress and improve quality of life. Nearly half of all people with PD utilize some form of complementary therapy. These therapies are often identified on the internet and frequently not reported to physicians. Treating physicians are sometimes unaware of such treatments, including their rationale, mechanisms, potential efficacy, and possible adverse effects. Dr. Diaz explored in detail the good, the bad, and the ugly sides of complementary therapies and how to talk with your doctor about integrating them into your treatment plan.

How Might Chiropractic Help

Chiropractic is commonly used for conditions affecting the muscles, bones and joints. Most people use chiropractic to relieve pain, especially back and neck pain. Theres some evidence that chiropractic can help with this.

Chiropractic can also be used to treat mental health conditions, such as phobias, depression and anxiety, but there is little evidence of its effectiveness.

There are no studies on the effects of chiropractic on people with Parkinsons.

Also Check: Rapid Onset Dystonia Parkinsonism Symptoms

Assessing The Quality Of Studies

The methodological quality of all included studies was detailed in the Figure 2. All included studies were randomized studies with explicit description. Specifically, seven studies used random number tables. Four studies used computer-generated lists of random numbers. Two studies employed online center distribution, while only one study stated the method for sequence generation by simple randomization. Eleven studies reported adequate allocation concealment. Four adopted opaque and sealed envelopes. The remaining studies adopted center distribution. Of 14 included studies, 8 studies applied double blinding and 6 studies had triple blinding. All studies had low risk of bias in the incomplete out-come data. Four studies had unclear risk of bias in selective reporting because of no available protocols. Other risks of bias were described in one study , which reported significant differences in baseline values of some outcome variables.

Figure 2. Risk of bias of the included studies. Risk of bias summary: judgements about each risk of bias item for each included study. Risk of bias graph: judgements about each risk of bias item presented as percentages across all included studies. +, low risk of bias -, high risk of bias ?, unclear risk of bias.

Eat Plenty Of Protein But Not With Levodopa Medications

Pin on Parkinsons

If youre taking a levodopa medication, your doctor may tell you to avoid protein when taking your meds. Both animal and plant protein can interfere with the absorption of levodopa medications.

But you should still eat plenty of protein. Just be strategic with the timing. Dont take levodopa medications with meals, Dr. Gostkowski says. Its best to take it on an empty stomach either 30 minutes before your meal or an hour after eating.

If you get nauseous from the medication, eat a small amount of starchy food with it, such as crackers. Make sure whatever you eat with your medicine doesnt have protein. Its a misunderstanding that people with Parkinsons should avoid protein, Dr. Gostkowski says. You definitely need protein in your diet. Just dont eat it when youre taking your levodopa medication.

Also Check: Does Parkinson’s Disease Cause Fatigue

Exploring Alternative Therapies For Parkinsons Disease

Because no two Parkinsons disease patients are alike, a Michigan Medicine neurologist encourages patients to consider conventional and alternative treatment options.

When Michigan Medicine neurologist Chauncey Spears, M.D., speaks to his patients with Parkinsons disease, he likes to make one thing clear: No two patients with Parkinsons disease are exactly alike.

There may very well be similarities between given patients, but every patient is unique, he says. Everybody is very different in their overall needs, as well as in their responses to treatments and medications.

For this reason, when it comes to the topic of alternative therapies for treating Parkinsons disease, Spears believes that patients are the best educators. There may be that one patient on the Internet who responds remarkably well to marijuana, but that may not be the case for the next person, he says.

Spears also wants to clear the air on how he views alternative therapies: Not as a last resort for PD patients, but as a diverse group of medical therapies, interventions, treatments, practices or products that dont fall under the category of conventional Western treatment practices.

Too often, patients believe that alternative therapies are a doctors way of saying, Weve exhausted all conventional measures. One last desperate option is to put you on an alternative medicine.

This, he says, is not the case.

Read Also: Parkinsons Disease Environmental Factors

Bioactive Molecules Derived From Parasitic Plants And Fungi

Cistanche salsa is a parasitic plant used as a Chinese traditional medicine containing acteoside, echinacoside, and tubuloside as its major phenylethanoid glycosides . C. salsa extracts containing these bioactive molecules have been shown to restore behavioral deficit and dopamine depletion in strata of MPTP induced C57 mice . They has also been demonstrated to protect dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra of PD model mice, which correlated with neurobehavior improvements and TH positive neuronal levels .

Gastrodia elata blume is a saprophytic perennial herb used traditionally as a medicine due to its wide range of therapeutic benefits. Protective effects of GE extract against MPP+-induced cytotoxicity in human dopaminergic SHSY-5Y cells demonstrated that GE extract dose dependently improved cell viability maintenance, attenuated oxidative damage, modulated expression of Bcl-2 and Bax, caspase-3, and limited poly polymerase proteolysis . Recently, MPP+ induced MN9D dopaminergic cells were shown to exhibit antiapoptotic effects following GE extract treatment. The v anillyl alcohol present in GE was considered to act by attenuating the MPP+ induced elevation of ROS levels and decreasing the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and poly polymerase .

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Muscle Stiffness And Posture Problems

Stage 2 of Parkinsons disease is considered a moderate form of the condition, with symptoms becoming more noticeable than the previous stage. Examples include noticeable tremors, stiffness, and trembling. Also, changes to facial expressions can occur but are not always apparent to others.

Although stage 2 doesnt usually cause balance-related issues, other movement symptoms such as muscle stiffness can make tasks more challenging to achieve. Additionally, the condition can hinder a persons posture at this stage, leading to back and neck pain. At this point, the disease can impact both sides of the body , and difficulties with speech can also occur.

Progression from stage 1 to 2 can take anywhere from months to years, and there arent any reliable methods to predict the way it will progress at present. People in stage 2 of Parkinsons can generally live alone but tend to find everyday tasks more difficult.

Parkinsons Disease Natural Treatment & Remedies In 5 Steps

Alternative Treatments for Parkinson’s Disease

By Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN

Parkinsons disease is a degenerative illness of the nervous system that results in loss of intentional movement and impaired motor functioning. Parkinsons disease symptoms affects smooth, natural movements of the body, and can make it hard to perform everyday tasks like speaking properly, walking, swallowing and sleeping.

With Parkinsons, the area of the brain that controls muscular movements receives less dopamine than usual. Dopamine is an important chemical necessary for not only coordinating proper body movements, but also things like learning, increasing motivation and regulating moods. This is one reason why depression and other mood changes often affect those with Parkinsons.

What causes Parkinsons, and is it curable? There is no specific known cause, but some aggravating factors include exposure to certain chemicals and toxic water, plus inflammation of the brain. While there is no cure for Parkinsons , there are medications available to boost dopamine in the brain and help manage symptoms.

A 2016 study by researchers at the University of Saskatchewan also found a possible way to stop the progression of Parkinsons. Researchers created caffeine-based chemical compounds which also contained nicotine, metformin and aminoindan that prevented the misfolding of alpha-synuclein, a protein necessary for dopamine regulation.

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Ginseng And Ginko Biloba

Ginseng is a plant substance which has been used in Eastern countries for centuries and is proposed to have anti-inflammatory properties, improve fatigue, and improve cognition. Extract from the Ginko tree or Ginko Biloba, have similarly been used for centuries in countries like China and Korea. In addition to containing anti-inflammatory flavanoids and terpinoids, Ginko extract is thought to exhibit important effects on multiple neurotransmitter pathways including acting as an MAO-Inhibitor , and inhibiting reuptake of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. While neuroprotective effects of these substances have been demonstrated in PD rat models, there are no randomized controlled clinical trials in humans using either ginko or ginseng in this population to guide recommendations.

Professional Ethics In Complementary And Alternative Medicines In Management Of Parkinsons Disease

A good, succinct summary of the evidence for various Complementary and Alternative Medicine treatments for PD including Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, etc., with a good discussion of the ethical and safety considerations physicians should keep in mind when discussing CAM with patients and their families.

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Also Check: What To Eat With Parkinson’s Disease

How Much Does It Cost

If your chosen therapy isnt available on the NHS or HSC, you may have to pay. Costs for complementary therapies will vary, depending on the type of therapy you want, the length of the treatment and where you live.

At your first session the therapist will usually take a medical history and get to know you a bit better. As a result the first session may cost more than any follow-up sessions.

Practitioners usually recommend several treatment sessions. Before committing yourself to a course of treatment, make sure you ask about the cost.

You may also find it useful to ask when you can expect to feel any improvement and when to call it a day if you dont see the results youre hoping for.

Private health insurance may pay for some types of complementary therapy. Before you book a treatment session, ask your insurer if its covered by your policy and how to arrange payment.

Weve heard from many carers who have tried complementary therapies, some with very positive experiences. Again, its a personal choice.

If you care for someone with Parkinsons, its important to look after your own physical and mental health. You may find that complementary therapies are a good way to have time to yourself, reduce stress and do something you enjoy.

In some areas, the NHS, local councils and charities offer free or low-cost therapies to carers. Speak to your GP or a Parkinsons local adviser about whats available in your area.

A Resource Guide Of 19 Complementary Therapies For People With Parkinson’s

Pin on Aromatherapy

The options to help people with Parkinson’s live well are not limited to conventional medicine and DBS. This list of 19 complementary therapies people associated with the Davis Phinney Foundation Blog experimented with, under the care of their medical team, in an attempt to reduce symptoms even more.

Recommended Reading: Is Parkinson’s An Autoimmune

Alternative Treatment For Parkinsons Disease

Parkinsons Disease is the second most frequent neurodegenerative disorder, affecting 2-3% of the populations ages 65 and older.

Traditional treatment methods are typically focused on relief from motor symptoms. Research shows overwhelming evidence that oxidative stress has a significant role in neuronal degeneration. This, combined with an imbalance in antioxidant defense and repair mechanisms may lead to the loss or death of neurons in the part of the brain that plays a critical role in motor movement. Up to 40-60% of patients with Parkinsons Disease often experience symptoms of anxiety and depression as well, which can worsen the neuromotor symptoms of Parkinsons Disease.

OxfordRecovery Centerhasa Parkinsons Program with a unique approach to treating Parkinsons Disease. Our programhasshown incredibleoutcomes for our patients treating for Parkinsons Disease.

Learn more about each therapy we utilize below, along with video testimonial from one of our patients.

How Might Conductive Education Help

Some people find that conductive education helps to control the physical symptoms of Parkinsons, including tremor, rigidity and slowness of movement. By learning strategies which help overcome movement and other everyday problems, conductive education can increase feelings of confidence and independence.

Although conductive education is well established as a treatment for Parkinsons, there is little supporting medical evidence for its effectiveness.

Parkinsons disease is a degenerative illness of the nervous system that results in loss of intentional movement and impaired motor functioning. Parkinsons disease symptoms affects smooth, natural movements of the body, and can make it hard to perform everyday tasks like speaking properly, walking, swallowing and sleeping.

With Parkinsons, the area of the brain that controls muscular movements receives less dopamine than usual. Dopamine is an important chemical necessary for not only coordinating proper body movements, but also things like learning, increasing motivation and regulating moods. This is one reason why depression and other mood changes often affect those with Parkinsons.

What causes Parkinsons, and is it curable? There is no specific known cause, but some aggravating factors include exposure to certain chemicals and toxic water, plus inflammation of the brain. While there is no cure for Parkinsons , there are medications available to boost dopamine in the brain and help manage symptoms.

Also Check: Gene Therapy For Parkinson’s Disease An Update

Naturaltreatment For Parkinsons #6 Magnesium & Iodine:

Magnesium is vital for the health of the entire nervoussystem, especially the protective layer that surrounds the nerves . Magnesiumis also essential for the production of dopamine and helps protect dopaminergicneurons in the substantia nigra from degeneration. In addition to this, new evidence is showing that low levels of magnesium in the brain causes a build-up ofheavy metals a major factor in the development of Parkinsons, Alzheimers,epilepsy and MS. In a recent trial, 30 epileptics were given 450 mg ofmagnesium daily and this successfully controlled their seizures. Ifmagnesium can help epilepsy patients, it can certainly help Parkinsons sufferers. Worldrenowned magnesium expert and author, Dr Carolyn Dean, has both Parkinsons andAlzheimers disease in her top 55 health conditions caused by amagnesium deficiency list and says that magnesium is 100% essential for the preventionand treatment of both of these diseases Dr Carolyn Dean Interview

In regards to iodine, well-known researcher and author,Dr James Howenstein, says

Iodineis found in large quantities in the brain and the ciliary body of the eye. A lackof iodine may be involved in the production of Parkinsons disease andglaucoma.

Inthe brain, iodine concentrates in the substantia nigra, an area of the brainthat has been associated with Parkinsons disease.

David Brownstein M.D. 9

Best Sources of Magnesium and Iodine

-What Youll Need

1 cup of Magnesium Chloride Flakes

1 cup of Distilled Water

Important Supplements That May Help

Alternative Treatments for Parkinson’s Disease

Once you stop putting toxins into your body and eat clean, the trillions of cells in your body will be able to start living normally again. Eating the right foods and taking the necessary supplements will now begin to boost your brain health and healing.

Here are some supplements that will speed up the reversal of PD symptoms:

  • Magnesium: First and foremost on the list is magnesium. Low intake of this mineral magnesium, enables the deposition of excess calcium, heavy metals and toxins in the brain that leads to Parkinsons and Alzheimers diseases. When there is adequate presence of magnesium, heavy metals cannot be absorbed in the small intestines. Magnesium plays a vital role in protecting neurons from the lethal effects of aluminium and mercury poisoning.
  • B vitamins: A deficiency in vitamins B9 and B12 can cause brain problems that will initially manifest as depression, anxiety or even psychosis. The other B vitamins are useful for protecting against age-related brain wasting, and possibly prevent memory loss.
  • Glutathione: Glutathione is the mother of all antioxidants and is powerful in neutralizing free radicals damage and greatly reduce oxidative stress that destroy neurons.
  • Grape seed extract: Has super antioxidant effect that reduces DNA fragmentation in the brain. It is able to cross into the brain to protect brain cells from free radical damage.

Also Check: Gifts For Parkinson’s Disease

Foods High In Saturated Fat

Although the specific role of saturated fat in Parkinsons is still being studied, research suggests that a high dietary fat intake may increase your risk of this disease .

Generally speaking, diets high in saturated fat have been linked to chronic conditions like heart disease. As such, you may wish to keep these foods in moderation (

  • some baked and fried foods

Conversely, a very small study notes that the keto diet which is high in fat is beneficial for some people with Parkinsons. However, a low fat diet also showed benefits. Overall, more research is needed .

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