Holistic Approach To Parkinson's - ParkinsonsDaily.com

How Can I Know If An Alternative Treatment Is Safe And Effective

Part V Holistic Approach to Parkinsons

Alternative treatments can be helpful in some cases, yet some therapies can be ineffective, costly, and even dangerous. The best way to evaluate your options is to become educated. Ask yourself the following questions:

What is the treatment?
What are the side effects?
Is it effective?
How much does it cost?

Once you answer these questions, weigh your options and decide whether the benefits outweigh the risks.

If you do decide to try an alternative treatment, make sure your health is protected. Do not take the claim at face value: contact reliable organizations and discuss the therapy. Talk to others in a support group, your family and friends although they may not always be supportive, they can help you make an educated, objective decision.

Discuss the therapy with your doctor. Make sure your doctor knows what therapy you are considering so they can discuss possible interactions and/or side effects with your current treatments. They can also provide you with information on other patients who may have tried the same therapy.

Contact the Better Business Bureau and thoroughly research the background of the therapy provider. Determine how long they have been providing this therapy, what credentials they have, and what their philosophy of treatment is. Avoid therapy providers who refuse or are reluctant to work with your doctor. Be sure that the provider is willing to refer patients to a conventional doctor when necessary.

Alternative Treatments For Parkinson’s Disease

For people with Parkinson’s disease, treatment typically involves the use of medications that help minimize movement problems and control symptoms. A disorder of the central nervous system, Parkinson’s disease also can be better managed with the help of certain lifestyle changes.

In addition to medication, people who have Parkinson’s disease often seek alternative treatment options.

Does Diet Impact Parkinsons Disease

Decrease toxin exposure. Choose organic produce, drink filtered water, and load up on fiber to ensure regular bowel movements.
Drink more green tea. New research found that naturally occurring chemicals in green tea actually protect dopamine neurons affected by Parkinsons.
Cut back on carbohydrates. Its also smart to limit dairy and refined or processed meats and grains, which increase inflammation .

Natural Remedies For Parkinsons Disease

By Lutgarda Mariano 9 am on February 19, 2021

Parkinsons disease primarily develops due to low dopamine levels. When dopamine-generating neurons in the brain die, the body is unable to produce enough of this essential neurotransmitter. Many Parkinsons treatments aim to boost dopamine levels, which can mitigate some of the symptoms. While there are plenty of prescription treatments to alleviate Parkinsons symptoms, some natural remedies are also available.

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Are Complementary Therapies Beneficial

Theres no simple answer to this. There are so many types of therapy that its impossible to generalise.

Theres evidence of the beneficial effect of some complementary therapies . For other therapies, there is no research to prove it has any benefits for people with Parkinsons. But we hear from many people affected who feel it helps them.

It will also depend on what you expect from complementary therapies. For example, you may feel a particular therapy is not having a positive effect on your Parkinsons symptoms, but you may enjoy the experience. For you, this might be enough of a reason to continue.

Weve included comments from people affected by Parkinsons who have tried some of the therapies. We hope this will give you a better idea of what people are trying and how they found it. But remember that everyone will have a different experience.

Please remember these are peoples personal opinions Parkinsons UK doesnt endorse any particular therapy.

People may use complementary therapies alongside prescribed medication for many reasons, for example:

Conventional medicine might not always control someones symptoms.
Complementary therapy is a way of taking control of your own health.
Group therapy can be an opportunity to socialise. Equally, complementary therapies can be a time to enjoy your own company.
Complementary therapies can be relaxing.

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Possible Link Between Parkinsons And Riboflavin Deficiency

A 2003 study done in Brazil found that all thirty-one Parkinsons patients had evidence of a riboflavin deficiency. Nineteen of the patients were given a low dose of only 30 mg of riboflavin, three times a day for a period of six months.

This study is not surprising based on how Vitamin B1 positively affects those with myasthenia gravis.

If you refer to the biological science of thiamines role in the conversion of pyruvate to acetylcholine, you will see how three B vitamins are involved. They are: Vitamin B1 , Vitamin B2 and Vitamin B4 .

Though the pathology differs, the action of riboflavin on the muscular function in Parkinsons patients is similar.

Nutrition For Better Living

We believe the food you eat is an important part of your treatment for Parkinsons Disease or other movement disorders. Our registered dieticians, nutritionists and dining director develop delicious menu options to support your overall wellness. We provide explanations for why certain foods are better for your condition than others, but, ultimately, the choice at each meal or snack time is always yours. Its the power of eating for better living. to learn more.

Speech And Sound Therapy

Parkinsons Disease can cause Dysphagia , Hypophonia and Monotonous Speech. Problems with speech and swallowing can be severely limiting symptoms of Parkinsons but can be helped by seeing a speech pathologist or speech therapist.

Speech Therapy is an intervention therapy that can help people with Parkinsons to improve impairments and maintain as many communication skills as possible. They also teach techniques that conserve energy, including non-verbal communication skills.

The Importance Of Treatment

Holistic Approaches for Parkinson’s

As Parkinson’s disease takes its course, nerve cells responsible for the production of dopamine slowly die off. The condition causes tremors, muscle stiffness, and difficulty with motor function.

Treatment for Parkinson’s disease helps reduce the following symptoms:

Problems with movement
Shaking
Slowed speech

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Why Have You Included Therapies With No Scientific Evidence

The therapies in this information have all been chosen because theyre popular with people affected by Parkinsons.

Just because a therapy cant be proven to work in a medical trial, or there hasnt been enough research about whether it helps people with Parkinsons, it doesnt mean you wont find it useful. In fact, weve heard from many people who tell us they have benefited from using these therapies.

Many of our local groups organise complementary therapy sessions at their meetings to encourage members to give them a try.

Throughout this information, we highlight what scientific evidence there is to support the use of each therapy.

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.

Using Alternative Medicine For Parkinson’s Disease

Conventional medicine and alternative therapy have not been found to stop the progression of Parkinson’s disease. If you’re interested in using alternative medicine as part of your Parkinson’s disease treatment program, talk to your healthcare provider about which alternative therapies might be helpful for you. Self-treating or avoiding or delaying standard care can have serious consequences.

Disclaimer: The information contained on this site is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment by a licensed healthcare provider. It is not meant to cover all possible precautions, drug interactions, circumstance or adverse effects. You should seek prompt medical care for any health issues and consult your healthcare provider before using alternative medicine or making a change to your regimen.

Can I Use Complementary Therapies Instead Of Taking Parkinsons Medication

Research shows how important exercise is for people with Parkinson

Complementary therapies dont work as a replacement for Parkinsons medication. Stopping or making changes to your Parkinsons medication can be dangerous without the guidance of your specialist or Parkinsons nurse.

Generally speaking, the complementary therapies listed in this information are considered safe. But before taking tablets, pills or capsules, applying creams or drops or drinking teas, you should talk to your GP, specialist or Parkinsons nurse. This is because some herbs and remedies may have side effects or clash with medications youre already taking. Your healthcare professional may also be able to recommend a therapist, or advise you on other sources of information.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency is the government agency responsible for making sure that medicines and medical devices work, and are safe.

Some complementary therapies may not be safe during pregnancy. So its essential that you tell not only your GP, specialist or Parkinsons nurse but also your complementary therapist if youre trying for or expecting a baby.

Its not always easy to tell what is or isnt safe and many organisations offering therapy give the impression of being reliable even when theyre not.

Complementary Therapies And Parkinsons

Some people with Parkinsons and their family and carers have found complementary therapies useful. Although not providing a cure, they can help people to be more active, eat healthier, meet other people, manage anxiety and mood, relax, and take some time out. Everybody is different with different health needs so finding a therapy and a practitioner is an individual choice.

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Cannabis Can Help Maintain Mental Health In Parkinsons Patients

The visible symptoms of Parkinsons diseasepain, rigidity and difficulty movingoften overshadow the mental health issues that some patients face. Jan has firsthand experience with this, saying, With diseases like thistheres no cure its so easy to get depressed.

The endocannabinoid system is known to be involved in the stress response, and a 2007 study by McGill University found that low doses of THC could act as an effective antidepressant in animal models. Perhaps this is why many people say that cannabis helps maintain their mental health.

My most relaxed state comes from THC because it takes me out of my day and out of my head. Im not good at relaxing, so smoking marijuana at night lets me mellow out, she says.

Return To Stillness: A Natural Approach To Parkinsons And Degenerative Disease

Although Parkinsons disease has been recognized since early in the 19th Century, its cure remains beyond the reach of mainstream medicine. Holistic care offers options outside the medical approach, but even naturopathic doctors struggle to make headway against the ravages of this progressive, degenerative disease.

One of the new approaches to Parkinson that has yielded remarkable results is a new treatment approach called Return to Stillness, created by Australian naturopathic doctor John Coleman, who was diagnosed with Parkinsons in 1995. Midway through a naturopathic degree at the time, he became determined to pursue a new course of healing and to take responsibility for his own recovery.

In the course of developing his Parkinsons treatment, Coleman used a variety of approaches that included dietary changes, homeopathic remedies, Bowen therapy, craniosacral therapy, massage, Reiki, meditation, herbs and counselling. Today, he teaches the most important parts of his own recovery process to other Parkinsons patients.

Return to Stillness has three major components:

Alternative Treatment Red Flags To Look For Include:

Naturopathic Approach to Parkinsons Disease – Dr. Laurie Mischley

How the product/provider is promoted. Be cautious if products or providers are promoted through: telemarketers direct mailings infomercials ads disguised as valid news articles ads in the back of magazines.
Big claims. If a provider or product claims to be a “cure” for Parkinson’s disease, or gives outrageous claims, be cautious.
Beware if the product is only being offered through one doctor or manufacturer.
Ingredients. Make sure all of the active ingredients are listed. Do not trust “secret formulas.”
Testimonials. Keep in mind that testimonials are only given by those who are satisfied with the product. And, if the ad says, “paid endorsement,” know that the person is getting compensated to say what the manufacturer wants them to say.

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Are Complementary Therapies Available On The Nhs Or The Hsc In Northern Ireland

This will depend on the type of therapy you want and the policy in your area.

Some hospitals and GP practices offer a few complementary therapies like acupuncture, aromatherapy, massage, osteopathy and chiropractic treatments.

Speak to your GP, specialist or Parkinsons nurse about whats available locally. Your Parkinsons local adviser may also be able to help you.

Some GPs have training in complementary therapies. If they cant provide the treatment themselves, they may be able to refer you to a therapist on the NHS.

Benefits Of Complementary Therapies

There is no simple answer to this question as there are so many types of therapy, and responses vary for each person. Although no complementary therapies have been scientifically proven to slow, stop or reverse the development of Parkinsons, many people have experienced benefits from complementary therapies such as better general health, decreased pain and improvements in mood.

How Do I Find A Good Therapist

Before choosing a therapist its important to find out if theyre reputable, insured and, where relevant, belong to a regulatory body.

You may find it helpful to ask:

your GP, specialist, Parkinsons nurse or other healthcare professional. Many hospitals and GP surgeries now work together with complementary therapists
someone else with Parkinsons, a friend or family member
your Parkinsons local adviser

Always check the therapists credentials. Some complementary therapists use the Dr title, but that doesnt necessarily mean theyve studied conventional medicine. An honest, reliable practitioner wont mind you asking about their qualifications.

Professional associations

Many therapists are members of reputable, professional organisations. These organisations can be useful sources of information. Be aware that some organisations may make claims that arent backed up by good evidence.

We list a number of professional organisations for each complementary therapy. If youre doing your own research, bear in mind that a high quality professional association requires its members to:

complete some kind of formal qualification, which will usually include a training programme and an exam
stay up to date in their field by continuing their professional training and development
follow a code of ethics and professional conduct
have insurance
report any side effects when they happen

When you find a therapist, here are a few questions you should ask:

Exploring Alternative Therapies For Parkinsons Disease

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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, We’ve exhausted all conventional measures. One last desperate option is to put you on an alternative medicine.

This, he says, is not the case.

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Our Approach To Exercise

Our holistic approach extends to our exercise philosophy, where we incorporate physical movement into your overall care plan. We hold scheduled classes taught by physical and occupational therapists in our easily accessible gym. A caregiver helps you practice the exercises learned in the comfort and privacy of your apartment. to learn more.

Benefits And Risks Of Clinical Trials

Joining clinical trials can be a fulfilling experience. While determining whether or not to join in a clinical trial, take into consideration the following benefits:

You have access to leading healthcare professionals, innovative new treatments, and high standards of care.
Participating in a clinical trial can improve your knowledge and understanding of your disease.
People who take part in clinical trials contribute to science that they and others can benefit from. The drugs you are now taking are only available because people have volunteered in clinical trials before you.
While every effort is made to ensure that clinical trials are as safe as possible, clinical trials that test new therapies are experiments and may involve risks.

Holistic Approach To Parkinson’s