Treatment Options for Parkinson's Disease

The Role of Alternative Medicine in Parkinson's Disease

There are increasing numbers of professionals who combine knowledge of conventional treatment of Parkinson's disease with knowledge of complementary medicine. Research in this field is very active. There are limited clinical trials regarding Parkinson's disease and complementary medicine; most information is based on anecdotal evidence. It is important to notify your health care provider if you are using any alternative therapies, no matter how insignificant or benign they may seem.

To see the latest conclusions of the American Academy of Neurology regarding the use of alternative medicine for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, please click on the following link:

http://aan.com/professionals/practice/guidelines/Neuroprotective_PD.pdf

Some forms of complementary medicine related to Parkinson's disease include:

Herbal Preparations

• Primrose oil for reducing tremors
• Passionflower for reducing agitation and insomnia
• Ginger for reducing nausea and vomiting from medications
• Milk thistle to enhance liver function by removing toxins from the body

Acupuncture

It has been established that acupuncture causes certain physiological responses in the body that many patients claim brings relief to various Parkinson's disease symptoms. In a pilot study of acupuncture for Parkinson's disease, the only symptom that benefited from acupuncture was sleep disturbance.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

This focuses on establishing balance in the body through treatment of meridians (channels of energy) as well as other modalities.

Massage Therapy

There are several types of massage therapy. Many Parkinson's disease patients report muscle relief as well as other symptomatic relief with this modality of treatment.

Yoga

Yoga promotes relaxation and stretching which some patients with Parkinson's disease find helpful.

Tai Chi

Effective in some Parkinson's disease patients to improve balance by using slow movement to relax and strengthen muscles.

Co-Enzyme Q10

There are ongoing studies regarding Co-enzyme Q10, a vitamin-like antioxidant that may have protective benefits for persons with Parkinson's disease. There was also hope that high doses of vitamin E could be protective, however, studies have shown no benefit and some research suggests that some antioxidant vitamins may be harmful in high doses.