People with Parkinson's disease experience a variety of symptoms, including tremors, a slowing of movement called bradykinesia, muscle rigidity, constipation and trouble swallowing. Medications prescribed for Parkinson's patients can help manage symptoms, but are not the only way to control the disease. Alternative therapies for Parkinson's disease include a special diet, massage and relaxation techniques.
Dietary Supplements
The Mayo Clinic and the National Parkinson's Foundation suggest that dietary supplements have a positive effect on Parkinson's symptoms. Adding high levels of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids to your diet, as well as taking Coenzyme Q10, could slow the progression of the neurological effects of the disease because the nutrients help protect cells from damage. Consult a physician before beginning supplements to ensure that they will not interact negatively with prescription medications.
Massage Therapy
The National Parkinson's Foundation (NPF) suggests that massage therapy is beneficial to people who suffer from the muscle aches and rigidity that accompanies Parkinson's disease. The NPF explains that two types of massage in particular helps reduce symptoms. Swedish massage works stiff muscles of the back, neck, arms and legs with a kneading pattern. Acupressure, also called Shiatsu massage, applies pressure to points on the body that are similar to acupuncture. The overall feeling of relaxation that a person gets after a massage can calm the effects of Parkinson's disease.
Mind-Body Fitness
Activities that combine easy stretching with relaxation and breathing techniques, such as tai chi and yoga, is an alternative therapy that might work for some people with Parkinson's disease. The Mayo Clinic explains that yoga and tai chi can increase balance and flexibility, two abilities that people with Parkinson's usually lack. The slowness of the stretching will likely accommodate people with motor control problems.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is the ancient art of using fine needles on pressure points throughout the body to realign the body's energy (called the qi). The National Parkinson's Foundation reports that some people who suffer from tremors experience relief after acupuncture sessions. The efficacy of acupuncture as an alternative therapy for Parkinson's has not been widely studied, but its use does seem to help some people far more than others.
