PARKINSON’S WHOLE BODY CARE Contributed by Christa Knox, MA, MScN, Brain Food for Thought
ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS THAT WILL SUPPORT YOU FROM THE INSIDE OUT If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, you’ve probably been given great modalities for treatment, met with specialists, and been referred medications to help manage your symptoms. Have you been wondering about holistic (whole body — mind, body and soul) care? Does it work? Is there any science to back it up, or is it just a placebo effect? Today I’m going to highlight some alternative treatments, backed by science, that will support you from the inside out. It’s summer — the weather is great, and perfect time to try something new! 1. Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a holistic health technique that stems from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practices in which trained practitioners stimulate specific points on the body by inserting thin needles into the skin. It has been shown to increase neural responses in regions including the substantia nigra, which is impaired by PD.1 Currently it is being used for: muscle spasms and pain, chronic back problems, headaches, osteoarthritis, allergies, digestive problems, mood variances, and depression. Clearly, this is a whole body approach worth looking into. 2. Qigong: Qigong is an ancient Chinese health care system that integrates physical postures, breathing techniques and focused intention. The gentle, rhythmic movements of Qigong reduce stress, build stamina, increase vitality, and enhance the immune system. It has also been found to improve cardiovascular, respiratory, circulatory, lymphatic and digestive functions. But its benefits don’t stop there! Researchers evaluated the immediate and sustained effects of Qigong on motor and non-motor symptoms of PD, and they found that more patients improved in the Qigong group than in the control group.2 3. Tai Chi: Tai chi is an ancient Chinese tradition that, today, is practiced as a SEPT/OCT 2016
graceful form of exercise. It involves a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner and is accompanied by deep breathing.The New England Journal of Medicine has published research showing that Tai chi reduces stiffness, improves mobility, posture, balance and gait in patients with PD.3 4. Yoga: There is strong research affirming that in PD patients, yoga can benefit mobility, balance, strength, flexibility, and even your mood and sleep!4 You can join a class or do it in the comfort of your own house or backyard. It’s low impact, and the poses are very easy to modify. 5. Meditation: There are over 3,000 scientific studies on the powerful effects of meditation. In just twenty minutes a day, you can strengthen your brain! Meditation: reduces anxiety, lowers stress, boosts energy, strengthens the immune system, and improves concentration. Meditation has been shown to improve the neural networks that play an important role in PD.5 6. Diet: You’ll never feel hungry or deprived while eating a whole food diet rich in organic produce, nuts, coconut, healthy fats, eggs and sustainable meats and fish. Yes, research has shown that even dark chocolate and coffee can be brain-supportive. Sugar and refined grains are highly-addictive, can cause brain inflammation, and are devoid of the critical nutrients our brains need to thrive.6 It’s important to remember that there is no one “recipe” that will work for everyone, but even one change can have a powerful effect. Want to explore further? Why don’t you chat with your doctor and see if any of these whole body practices could benefit you and consider joining one of the Alternative & Supplemental Support groups (Joe on the Open Road) that meet – two in Metro Portland and one MORE INFO! (800) 426-6806 - WWW.PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG
in Eugene. See pg 7 for listing. References 1. Yeo S, Lim S, Choe IH, et al. Acupuncture stimulation on GB34 activates neural responses associated with Parkinson’s disease. CNS Neurosci Ther. 2012;18(9):781-90. 2. Schmitz-hübsch T, Pyfer D, Kielwein K, Fimmers R, Klockgether T, Wüllner U. Qigong exercise for the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease: a randomized, controlled pilot study. Mov Disord. 2006;21(4):543-8. 3. Li F, Harmer P, Fitzgerald K, et al. Tai chi and postural stability in patients with Parkinson’s disease. N Engl J Med. 2012;366(6):511-9. 4. Sharma NK, Robbins K, Wagner K, Colgrove YM. A randomized controlled pilot study of the therapeutic effects of yoga in people with Parkinson’s disease. Int J Yoga. 2015;8(1):74-9. 5. Pickut BA, Van hecke W, Kerckhofs E, et al. Mindfulness based intervention in Parkinson’s disease leads to structural brain changes on MRI: a randomized controlled longitudinal trial. Clin Neurol Neurosurg. 2013;115(12):2419-25. 6. Giugliano D, Ceriello A, Esposito K. The effects of diet on inflammation: emphasis on the metabolic syndrome. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2006;48(4):677-85.
It ain’t Pretty
by April Curfman JUNE 24, 2016 Surfing a man-made chemical Hoping for a miracle “No, I drive a tricycle” Parkinson’ Calliope Every measurement a loss Each pill - leaves grit, exhaust Racking up a greater cost Parkinson’ Anxiety Grant, Ali, Fox, Petrick. . . few Spotlighted – out - in public view Living advocacy - truth Parkinson’ Notoriety Trickster teasing shark attack Chunks of lives we can’t get back Words that were here, were hacked Parkinson’ Sobriety Cells that produce no dopamine Joy’s equilibrium left lean Caged in chains, no daylight seen Parkinsons’ Undeservedly How many times have I begged God And wanted to give up . . . but. . . not Tried to get wobbly legs to walk Parkinson’ Reality I gave my best. Now it’s your turn Give what you can, and know its worth The sweetest words: – this year a cure Parkinson’ Finality
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