Parkinson's Disease Treatment
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s Disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement. It happens when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine start to break down. Dopamine is a chemical messenger that helps with smooth, coordinated movement. As Parkinson’s progresses, it can lead to tremors, stiffness, slow movement, and balance problems. But there’s hope. With the right Parkinson’s disease treatment and support, you can manage your symptoms and live a fulfilling life.Importance of Early Parkinson’s Treatment
Early intervention is key in managing Parkinson’s Disease. Seeking help for Parkinson’s disease as soon as you notice symptoms can significantly improve your long-term outcomes. Early initiation of Parkinson’s disease treatment can help slow the progression of the disease and manage symptoms effectively. This is particularly crucial because functional medicine emphasizes addressing the root causes and supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms, which can be more effective in the earlier stages. It also allows you to build a strong support system and develop coping strategies to navigate the challenges of living with Parkinson’s.Common Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease can manifest in various ways, and symptoms often vary from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include:Tremor
This is often one of the first noticeable symptoms, usually a rhythmic shaking in the hands, arms, legs, jaw, or head. While often associated with resting tremors, a study by Kraus et al. (2006) highlighted the prevalence of kinetic tremors in Parkinson’s disease. These tremors, occurring during movement, can significantly impact daily activities and are often overlooked. It’s crucial to recognize and address all forms of tremor to provide comprehensive Parkinson’s disease treatment.Bradykinesia
This refers to slowness of movement, making everyday tasks more difficult. A 2016 study by Bologna et al. explored how bradykinesia changes throughout the progression of Parkinson’s disease. In early stages, it manifests as reduced speed and a gradual decrease in movement amplitude, while in advanced stages, the slowness becomes more pronounced and affects movement rhythm. This highlights the importance of understanding the specific ways bradykinesia impacts individuals to tailor effective Parkinson’s disease treatment plans.Muscle Rigidity
Muscles become stiff and inflexible, limiting the range of motion and causing discomfort. This rigidity, a hallmark of Parkinson’s disease, can be assessed not only through traditional clinical examinations but also through objective measures like the postural stiffness measure developed by Lauk et al. (1999). This measure, derived from analyzing a person’s sway while standing still, has been shown to correlate with the severity of rigidity and other motor symptoms in Parkinson’s.Postural Instability
This involves difficulty maintaining balance, increasing the risk of falls. This instability can be exacerbated by the progression of Parkinson’s disease and the limitations of conventional medicine for Parkinson’s in fully addressing this aspect. A study explored the complexities of postural instability in Parkinson’s disease, highlighting the interplay of various neurological factors that contribute to balance problems. It emphasized the importance of addressing postural instability to minimize fall risk and enhance overall quality of life.Freezing of Gait
This is a temporary inability to move your feet forward while walking, which can be frustrating and disruptive. More than just an inconvenience, freezing of gait can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, especially when traditional medicine for Parkinson’s offers limited solutions. As highlighted in a 2014 study by Walton et al., freezing of gait was one of the strongest predictors of reduced quality of life in individuals with Parkinson’s disease, even more so than other common symptoms like depression or sleep disturbances.Micrographia
This refers to changes in handwriting, with letters becoming smaller and more cramped. While often considered a hallmark of Parkinson’s disease and an important factor in Parkinson’s management, a 2014 study by Letanneux et al. revealed that focusing solely on letter size (micrographia) may not capture the full extent of handwriting difficulties in Parkinson’s. Their research showed that changes in writing speed and fluency, measured using advanced techniques like graphic tablets, can be even more sensitive indicators of Parkinson’s-related writing impairments.Causes of Parkinson’s
While the exact causes of Parkinson’s, a chronic disease, are still being researched, scientists believe a combination of genetic and environmental factors plays a role. A 2018 study by Bhat et al. explored these factors in detail, highlighting the complex interplay of genes, environmental toxins, and aging in the development of Parkinson’s disease. Research suggests that exposure to certain toxins, a history of head injuries, and a lack of regular exercise may increase the risk. Age is also a significant factor, with most people diagnosed after age 60, as highlighted in Reeve et al. (2014), which emphasizes the role of aging in the cascade of stressors that contribute to the vulnerability of substantia nigra neurons.Interested in Holistic Parkinson's Disease Treatment? Ask your provider or book a call with us!
Our Approach to Parkinson’s Management & Cure
At Five Journeys, we take a holistic approach to Parkinson’s management. We believe that addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—is crucial for optimal well-being. As highlighted in “The Clinical Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease” (Sveinbjornsdottir, 2016), Parkinson’s is a complex condition affecting not just movement, but also various other aspects of your health. That’s why our functional medicine Parkinson’s approach combines the best of conventional medicine for Parkinson’s, like those discussed in the study, with evidence-based complementary therapies. We explore potential underlying causes of your condition, going beyond just managing the symptoms. We then create a personalized plan that may include nutritional guidance, stress management techniques, exercise recommendations, and lifestyle modifications. While there’s no guaranteed natural cure for Parkinson’s, our goal is to help you manage your symptoms, improve your quality of life, and slow the progression of the disease, aligning with the study’s emphasis on comprehensive care.
Why Begin Improving Your Health with Five Journeys?
We understand that navigating a Parkinson’s diagnosis can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to provide compassionate, comprehensive care. Our team of Parkinson’s disease specialists will guide you on your journey to better health. We offer advanced Parkinson’s disease treatment options, including personalized nutrition plans, stress reduction techniques, and lifestyle counseling. We’re committed to empowering you with the knowledge and tools you need to live a fulfilling life with Parkinson’s.
Holistic Approach
At Five Journeys, we recognize that true wellness encompasses more than just physical health. We take a holistic approach that considers all aspects of your well-being, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health.
Personalized Care
We understand that each individual is unique, and their health needs are different. That's why we tailor our services to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you're seeking preventive care, managing chronic conditions, or optimizing your overall health, we provide personalized solutions that prioritize your well-being.
Insurance Accepted
Living with Parkinson’s Disease presents unique challenges, but it doesn’t have to define you. At Five Journeys, we believe in hope and the possibility of a brighter future. Our holistic Parkinson’s disease treatment approach can help you manage your symptoms, improve your overall well-being, and regain control of your life. Contact Five Journeys today to schedule a consultation at our Boston or Newton location. Our team is here to support you on your path to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
*Massachusetts law does not allow us to accept MassHealth & Medicaid. Other exceptions may apply.
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