Natural Options to Reverse Parkinsons Symptoms

Author: manabunnow4zph (Page 12 of 40)

Pain Remedies

I am regularly following your website and very good
information about alternative approaches to combat Parkinson’s.
My questions for you center on pain remedies you would recommend. 

I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s about 3 years ago. 
the beneficial effects of L-dopa medications have diminished so that now
it sometimes doesn’t help at all and when it does, only for
a very short period of time.

Most of the day I am feeling bad, with little relief from
L-dopa. I have made life style changes with healthy diet,
low saturated and trans fat, less refined carbohydrate,
no processed food with variety of antioxidants and chlorella
green algae, L lipoic acid, N acetyl carnithine, gingko biloba,
vitamin A, E, C, B complex, selenium, zinc ; mitochondria
energy boosters like Co enzyme Q 10, NADH  and Bowen therapy etc.

I know that body needs time to heal and recovery  process
is zigzag. I have also started Aquas.

In spite of doing this I feel that my rigidity, muscle spasms
are increasing in my neck, shoulders, back. This is accompanied
by a feeling of other unpleasant sensations which are difficult
to describe but are all the same extremely. I feel a continuous
abnormal sensation which aggravates after noon & becomes worse
at night especially in my forearms and feet. Due to unpleasant
sensations, I can not sleep well and remain disturbed.

I don’t have any tremor, good gait, normal hand writing, good gait,
good hand eye coordination, decreased facial expression, little
difficulty in speaking, no slowness, no difficulty in initiating
movement, can ride scooter, less energy. During night hours my
legs become very heavy and my body drags.

My questions are 1) have you ever seen anyone like this whose
primary symptoms are pain and a very unpleasant internal other
sensation, rigidity with no tremor; is it atypical: and if so

2) what helped, or what treatment or other plan would you recommend?

About Pain Remedies

I need again to put my disclaimer at the top.
I am not a medical doctor, so be sure and consult
with your health care provider/doctor before making
any changes to your health care program.Take my
comments as information only to be discussed
further with your doctor. I am not qaulified to
diagnose or treat Parkinson’s or any disease.

Have I seen anyone like you?

I continue to be amazed at the variety of characteristics for each
person’s symptoms. Everyone has a unique situation and a unique
body. From my interviews, I would speculate that 20 – 30% of people
have symptoms that are somewhat similar to yours (though not identical!).

As a side note, the literature is clear that many people are
misdiagnosed. Estimates vary, but studies indicate that
at least one out of five people are misdiagnosed. Neurologists
have a tough job diagnosing this disease. Many tell their
patients – I do not know, but we can try medication if you wish to
see what happens.

What Pain Remedies Can Help?

My initial answer (which is probably what you were not expecting)
is experiment. The people who are getting good relief
experiment. Through experimentation they are able to figure
out what is most helpful to them. Many of the alternative therapies
do provide relief. The challenge is to find the therapies that
provide good relief for you and to find therapies that are
cost effective for you.

My second general suggestion for you is to begin looking in
different places for solutions. Think outside the box of options.
Let me suggest just a few possibilities.

First, consider the possibility that the side effects of the
medication might be creating some problems for you. It sounds
like the medication provided good relief initially, but
that now it provides little relief. There are over 40 hormones
in the body, so it is possible that your body is struggling to
maintain a good balance. There may be some harmful interactions
from taking the particular the supplements and medications.

If you decide at any point to reduce the dose, be sure to
consult with your doctor very closely. The process of going off
the medication is very tricky and can cause serious health problems.
It needs to be a very gradual and mindful weaning process which
can take a long time.

Second, you do not mention an exercise program, Do you have one?
It can be a true challenge with your symptoms, but any movement
during the day will help relieve symptoms. Exercise gets the lymph
system moving and helps strength the immune system.

Third, you might look into detox programs. Great! There are a
number of detox programs that offer the opportunity for
successful detoxes. I see that you are
taking Aquas which is a core approach for detoxing. Hydration is
the key to success with a successful detox program.

Fourth, it may be the case that all of the wonderful supplements
you are taking are not being absorbed by your body. In other words,
the primary challenge you may be having is actually digestive.

Many people spend a ton of money on supplements, but because their
digestive systems are compromised, the supplements go in and come out without being assimilated by the tissues of the body.

Ayurvedics is dedicated to helping people get their
digestive system back on track. You might find some interesting
possibilities if you investigate approaches that help your digestive
system come back on line.

Fifth, There is always an unconscious emotional reason for pain. Explore
emotional undercurrents with a craniosacral therapist or energy healer. When the
emotional undercurrent is cleared, the pain will resolve.

Finally, rest assured that you are doing everything right with identifying
the prefect pain remedies that can help you. Searching
for answers as you are doing will yield huge benefits. One thing
most people do not realize is that when you start on the road to
recovery, it is common that your symptoms will be worse on some
days before they get better. In fact – if you begin to feel lousy it can
be a good sign that you have chosen the perfect set of pain remedies
on your journey down the road to recovery.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease

© Parkinsons Recovery

Blossoming of Creativity Thanks to Parkinsons

My name is Andrea and I live in Florida with my Mom. She has experienced a blossoming of creativity thanks to Parkinsons.

She was diagnosed with PD about 17 years ago. She’s still in a pretty good shape because she takes as little medication as possible and we tried different type of alternative therapies like stem cell injection in Mexico, electromagnetic brain stimulation in Hungary, taking Kapikacchu powder and vitamins. She boosts her immune system with fermented papaya powder (Osato USA) and she received glutathione injections for a while (Dr. Perlmutter).

The medication side effects caused us lots of trouble and cost lots of money.She’s definitely in better shape than 2 years ago.Thank you for you the next thing what we want to try the sound therapy by Sharry Edwards. [Sharry Edwards from Sound Health Options was featured as a guest on your radio show].

It must be true that people with PD are getting more artistic. My mom started doing shell crafts, mostly animals. Everybody’s saying around us that she’s really creative and talented.

I think this type of activity is really therapeutic and helps fighting against the PD. (Of course when she’s burning her fingers it’s not so much:)

I just signed up as a member on your web site [https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com/parkinsons-recovery]. I think it’s great and I really hope my mom will take advantage of it.

Andrea

Thanks so much for sending in the story about your Mom and how she experienced a blossoming of creativity thanks to Parkinsons. You are certainly trying out some fascinating therapies. Sounds like her situation is improving every month. Hooray!

The exciting positive side effect of Parkinson’s symptoms is a blossoming of incredible creativity. It is as if under used parts of the brain are suddenly activated.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery
https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease
https://www.parkinsonsdisease.me

Lithium Parkinsons Treatment

A caller on Parkinsons Recovery Radio during my interview with Angela Wensley offered several interesting remedies for Cancer, MS and Parkinsons. His reference to a Lithium Parkinsons treatment  is particularly interesting in light of the research study abstract I have included below.

The caller suggests that Lithium may be a treatment for Manganism,  a form of manganese toxicity. It is not accepted as a treatment for Manganism.

Lithium is widely used as a mood stabilizer for treating bipolar disorder and other psychiatric conditions. It  has an interesting relationship with magnesium. They  are chemically related.

The research study below indicates a Lithium Parkinsons treatment might potentially be useful in moderate doses, but two of the subjects included in the study were unable to tolerate the side effects and dropped out of the study. Most of the research focuses on low dose lithium as a preferred dose.

Lithium Parkinsons Treatment Study

IBRO Neurosci Rep. 2023 May 7:14:429-434. Lithium’s effects on therapeutic targets and MRI biomarkers in Parkinson’s disease: A pilot clinical trial

Abstract

Background: Lithium has a wide range of neuroprotective actions, has been effective in Parkinson’s disease (PD) animal models and may account for the decreased risk of PD in smokers.

Methods: This open-label pilot clinical trial randomized 16 PD patients to “high-dose” (n = 5, lithium carbonate titrated to achieve serum level of 0.4-0.5 mmol/L), “medium-dose” (n = 6, 45 mg/day lithium aspartate) or “low-dose” (n = 5, 15 mg/day lithium aspartate) lithium therapy for 24-weeks. Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) mRNA expression of nuclear receptor-related-1 (Nurr1) and superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1) were assessed by qPCR in addition to other PD therapeutic targets. Two patients from each group received multi-shell diffusion MRI scans to assess for free water (FW) changes in the dorsomedial nucleus of the thalamus and nucleus basalis of Meynert, which reflect cognitive decline in PD, and the posterior substantia nigra, which reflects motor decline in PD.

Results: Two of the six patients receiving medium-dose lithium therapy withdrew due to side effects. Medium-dose lithium therapy was associated with the greatest numerical increases in PBMC Nurr1 and SOD1 expression (679% and 127%, respectively). Also, medium-dose lithium therapy was the only dosage associated with mean numerical decreases in brain FW in all three regions of interest, which is the opposite of the known longitudinal FW changes in PD.

Lithium Parkinsons Treatment Conclusion: Medium-dose lithium aspartate therapy was associated with engagement of blood-based therapeutic targets and improvements in MRI disease-progression biomarkers but was poorly tolerated in 33% of patients. 

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery®
https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease

Chinese Scalp Acupuncture

Chinese medicine offers integrative support for Parkinson’s and other movement disorders. Chinese scalp acupuncture, in particular, is effective with various health issues related to what patients suffer from. This interview with Pete Doyle, Acupuncturist from New York City, explores this great resource.

What is Chinese Scalp Acupuncture?

Chinese scalp acupuncture is a specialized form of acupuncture that targets specific points on the scalp to promote healing and balance in the body. This technique draws on traditional Chinese medicine principles, which view the body as an interconnected system where energy (or “qi”) flows through meridians. By stimulating points on the scalp, practitioners aim to influence brain function and enhance overall well-being.

How Does It Work for Parkinson’s?

  1. Improving Motor Function: Scalp acupuncture is believed to stimulate areas of the brain responsible for motor control. This can help improve coordination, reduce tremors, and enhance overall movement.
  2. Alleviating Symptoms: Patients often report relief from various Parkinson’s symptoms, including muscle stiffness, fatigue, and anxiety. The calming effects of acupuncture can help manage emotional well-being.
  3. Enhancing Neuroplasticity: Research suggests that acupuncture may promote neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganize itself. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson’s.

What to Expect in a Session

During a scalp acupuncture session, a licensed practitioner will assess your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan. Needles are gently inserted into specific points on the scalp, typically remaining in place for 20 to 30 minutes. Most patients find the experience relaxing, with minimal discomfort.

Frequency of Treatment

The frequency of treatment can vary depending on the individual’s condition and response. Some may benefit from weekly sessions, while others might find that bi-weekly or monthly treatments are sufficient.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery
www.parkinsonsrecovery.com

Chinese Scalp Acupuncture Resources

Peter Doyle, LAc, MSOM
900 Broadway, Suite 404
New York, NY  10003
(917)836-6834
www.qigardener.com

Jason Hao, LAc, OMD
(505) 986-0542
National Health Center
2019 Galisteo Street # C1
Santa Fe, NM 87505-2168

Edythe Vickers, LAc, MSOM, ND
An Hao Natural Health Care Clinic
2348 NW Lovejoy
Portland, OR 97210
(503) 224-7224

David P. Sniezek, DC, MD, LAc
2021 K Street, NW #710
Washington, DC 20006
(202) 296-3555
sniezek@aol.com

Music Therapy

Ever wonder whether music therapy can help offer relief from the symptoms ofmusic therapy Parkinson’s? The answer is yes! Therein lies the potential that music provides a huge benefit which can help sustain health and wellness. on Blog Talk Rad

Dr. Wendy Magee Ph.D. is the International Fellow in Music Therapy at the Institute of Neuropalliative Rehabilitation, Royal Hospital for Neuro-Disability in London, England. Dr. Magee discusses her extensive research using music to help persons with chronic illness and more specifically with the symptoms of Parkinsons.

My interview with Dr. Wendy Magee, international expert on music therapy from the Institute of Neuropalliative Rehabilitation in London, is posted next. The website link she refers to in the interview is: https://www.rhn.org.uk/

The Institute of Neuropalliative Rehabilitation is home to an informative website about the use of music for people living with acquired neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, stroke and other acquired brain injuries. The website outlines the work of the Music Therapy Neurology Network, a global virtual network which shares information and knowledge about music and neurology.

Anyone is welcome to join this network – whether music therapist professional, person with neurological illness, carer or research/clinical professional interested in music and neurology. Although the website content is currently largely geared to professionals, new pages will be added in the near future specifically for people living with neurological illness and their carers. The website has a a wealth of information on published research on Music and neurology, links to Music Therapy organizations around the world, and links to other websites on music and neurology.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Cure for Parkinson’s at the Forefront?

I have a question regarding the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Is a cure for Parkinson’s at the forefront?

A close relative of mine is suffering from what it appears to be a symptom of Parkinson’s. She is at the initial stages right now. E.G:

– resting tremors
– tremors get slightly worst in mid air (whether or not she’s holding onto something)

She is exercising regularly now which is a definitely a good thing, however, I have noticed that when she does a lot of housework or work in general the tremors would get slightly worst…is that a regular symptom of Parkinson’s?

At this point, she is going to be taking the anti-tremor pills prescribed by the doctor which hopefully will reduce or eliminate the tremor for the time being.

She is also not quite receptive to the idea of having to change the hygienic needs (e.g. shampoo, soap etc) to the herbal ones as was suggested in the e-book.

Are there any other suggestions you can provide aside from drinking 8 cups of water a day and more exercise to reduce the tremors? Acupuncture at this point did not seem to help very much…We haven’t tried massage or Bowen Therapy nor have we tried the Aqua therapy (simply coz we don’t know much about it)

Do you know whether there is a cure for the disease with the invention of a new pill at the forefront?

Any suggestions or feedback would be appreciated.

Response:

You ask whether doing a lot of housework or work in general are regular symptoms of Parkinson’s? It is not the housework in itself or work in particular that fuels the symptoms. The issue turns primarily on the presence or absence of stress. When work – no matter the form – is stressful, symptoms will flare up. The more your relative can acknowledge the stress she is under and find ways to release it, less problematic will be her symptoms.

Is sounds like she has decided to medicate her symptoms. An alternative approach is to acknowledge her body is sending her a strong signal that something different needs to happen. Other symptoms will rear their ugly head if the cause of the current challenge is not addressed.

Exercise will certainly make a huge difference. Also consider doing more disciplined exercise like Tai Chi or perhaps yoga. Yes – body therapies that release stress such as craniosacral therapy and Bowen therapy have the potential to help offer her relief from her symptoms because they help her body release the stress that is trapped at the cellular level. Why not give them a trial run? With medicines you incur side effects (which may well be worth the cost). Body therapies are noninvasive and safe.

The Aquas are recommended by Naturopath Doctor John Coleman who himself is now fully recovered from the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Aquas are a homeopathic approach which helps reprogram the body’s mechanism to signal thirst and distribute water throughout the body which gets disabled as we age. You can discover more information at: https://www.aquas.us.

Will there be a cure for the symptoms? No, there will never be a cure because the conditions that create the symptoms are multi-faceted. Each person’s situation is entirely unique to them. That is why the symptoms vary so widely across individuals. If there were a single cause, then it might be possible to see a “cure” down the road, but there is no single factor that causes the symptoms associated with a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease.

Trauma creates havoc with the neurological system. Stress damages neural connections. Toxins blow the neurological system up.

I note that your friend does not seem to be worried about toxins. Toxins affect everyone who is alive today. If we do not take the effects of toxins seriously, we will eventually become ill in one form or another.

From my contact with hundreds and hundreds of people who currently experience the symptoms of Parkinsons I have observed the following. The people who are waiting on a  cure for Parkinson’s at the forefront are also waiting for someone out there to fix them. They inevitably feel worse and worse with each passing week.

The people who are taking responsibility for their health and take it upon themselves to figure out what their body is telling them are feeling better week by week.

Is a cure for Parkinson’s at the forefront? Stop waiting! Take responsibility for your life and you get better. Expect someone or something to fix you and you get worse.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Parkinsons Recovery
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease

Healing Sounds of Your Body

Sounds are the most potent therapy that has the potential to heal from the inside out. What are the healing sounds of your body?

There are a multitude of ways the frequencies of sound are delivered to the body for healing. The most effective is also the method never used by most people.

Does this method require the purchase of a device that delivers the sounds?

No

Does this method require appointments with medical professionals?

No

Is this method costly?

Duh no. It is free.

What is it? Cup your hands over your ears to hear the healing sounds of your body. These are the healing sounds of your body that bring all of your systems back into balance.

Conclusion

The sound of our body creates a rich tapestry into our health and emotional state. By listening to the natural sounds of our body when we cup our hands we receive the frequencies that heal us from the inside out. No medicines or supplements required. No cost need be incurred. When you listen to the sound of your body, take a moment to appreciate the symphony within. Your body is always communicating with you. Are you listening?

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Cure for Parkinson’s

Outside of John Coleman and Nathan Zakheim, have you interviewed or met anyone else who found a cure for Parkinson’s? Has anyone fully recovered (symptom free) from PD? If so, could you tell me who they are and what they did to recover.

Thanks.

Carl

As you state above, I have interviewed two people who declare they are “symptom free” after having advanced symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. They are John Coleman, ND and Nathan Zakheim. I included interviews with both persons in Pioneers of Recovery.

I document many other stories of recovery here on the blog and on my radio program. Generally, most people report symptoms that fluctuate widely that involve symptom free periods and periods when symptoms flare (usually connected to stress).

I talk with many people who are feeling much better, but I do not have their permission to tell their stories or even add them to the count. The only stories I can report during the radio program interviews and the e mails are by people who give me permission to post them (with their first names only).

Thanks to your question, I have decided not to construct a “count” on the basis of symptoms as a function of whether they fully or partially resolved. I realize now that such a “count” would place the emphasis on the wrong side of the coin – on the goal of becoming symptom free.

What is the problem with this emphasis? You are most likely thinking, “Isn’t that the whole point of recovery?”

All successful recovery programs hinge on maintaining a healthy inventory of positive thoughts. The challenge for all of us is that our egos entangle us in a nightmare of negative thoughts throughout the day which trips us up and creates mobility difficulties. There are good reasons we choose to wait for a cure for Parkinson’s.

We get angry:

Why am I not feeling better today?

We get frustrated:

Why did a new symptom flare up today? I have suffered long enough.

We get impatient:

Why do I have nothing to show from my hard work?

We get fearful:

Why does my family believe I will get worse and worse. Is it true Parkinson’s is “progressive”?

We get depressed:

Why should I bother trying anything new? Nothing is working out.

We get mental:

Where is the evidence for recovery?

This is why we demand there be a cure for Parkinson’s now.

I could continue with 100 pages of questions inspired by our cleaver egos, but you get the point from the short list above. Our egos keep us stuck in the mud. It happens to all of us. No one in a body escapes.

Here is the rub. When our thoughts throughout the day are intent on eliminating symptoms or becoming “symptom free” we give energy to what we do not wish to manifest. If we agonize about becoming symptom free, any hope of recovery will inevitably backfire. We get the opposite of what we want. We give energy to what we do not want. If a majority of thoughts during the day focus on becoming symptom free, we nurture the symptoms, guaranteeing they will continue to pester us.

I admit this sounds counter intuitive, so let me explain. Focusing on becoming “symptom free” suspends you in a space of negative thinking that hangs out in collective consciousness. Every thought has a frequency. Those that center around “eliminating symptoms” are low frequency thoughts that can never manifest health and wellness. Rather, such thoughts sustain disease and illness. The thought

I want to be symptom free”

focuses on what you do not want rather than what you do want to manifest.

A key to recovery is to take control over our thoughts moment to moment. As I wrote Five Steps to Recovery (which is all about transforming our thoughts),  I monitored my own thoughts each day.

Geez. I could not believe what I discovered. I roll the same negative thoughts around my head every day. The number of new thoughts was unbelievably tiny when compared to the thousands of negative thoughts I recycled every day. It was if I was living the same day over and over as I  listened to the same  record of depressing songs.

Have you ever seen the movie Groundhog Day where Bill Murray re-lives the same day every fricking day? The trap of negative thinking is just like the nightmare Bill Murray faced every day. You might as well read the same book every day of your life, year after year. The first day the book is interesting. After several months (much less decades) the book gets pretty darn boring. The juices of life get drained very quickly.

When I keep recycling the same negative thoughts, I have no prayer of changing any circumstance in my life. I certainly have no hope of reversing a chronic set of symptoms.

Among those who occupy a body, who is “symptom free”? I suggest that the honest answer is no one. Not me. Not you. Not anyone who occupies a human body. Everyone experiences symptoms most days: perhaps a new ache, perhaps a familiar digestive challenge, perhaps depression, perhaps low energy, perhaps a sprain, perhaps anxiety.

What is the Count of Your Symptoms?

When I preview the list of symptoms that are associated with people who have the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, they include just about everything wrong that can happen to a person. Perhaps this sounds outrageous, but it is true. It is why so many hold out the hope there will be a cure for Parkinson’s soon.

Below is a streamlined list of symptoms reported by persons who have a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease. A “streamlined list” means I have not included every symptom that people with Parkinson’s tell me they have experienced. As you read down the list, make a mental count of  which ones you have experienced at some point in your life time.

  • Stiffness
  • Numbness
  • Cramps
  • Balance
  • Depression
  • Repeating yourself
  • Anxiety
  • Apathy
  • Swallowing
  • Walking difficulties
  • Standing up straight
  • Constipation
  • Fatigue
  • Diarrhea
  • Urinating
  • Tremors
  • Drooling
  • Faintness on rising
  • Dizziness
  • Excessive sweating
  • Daytime sleepiness
  • Insomnia
  • Memory loss
  • Weight loss
  • Skin rashes
  • Restlessness
  • Memory challenges
  • Rigid muscles
  • Muscle spasms
  • Joint pain
  • Nightmares
  • Hallucinations
  • Bruising
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Speech/voice changes
  • Difficulty with stairs
  • Frequent urination
  • Circulation issues
  • Haggard look
  • Headaches
  • Arm/leg heaviness
  • Muscle spasms
  • Full body weakness
  • Pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Red rash
  • Arm/leg rigidity
  • Social smiling
  • Swollen ankles
  • Chest tightness
  • Tingling
  • Tremors
  • Warmth in body parts
  • Weak muscles

I do not know what your count is, but I have personally experienced all of the symptoms in the list above at one point or another in my lifetime. I do not have the diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease.

How about now – in this very moment as I write these words? What symptoms am I experiencing in this moment?

  1. I have incredible stiffness in my shoulders which always happens when I write every day.
  2. I have ringing in my ears which I have learned to ignore.
  3. I have an ache in the middle of my spine (T4-T5).
  4. My throat is restricted.
  5. I had memory loss a few minutes ago when I could not remember how to spell a word.
  6. I had a tinge of tingling in my left little finger a few moments ago.

My list of symptoms above pertains only to this single moment. I will not bore you with a list of my personal symptoms from this morning or yesterday, but I can assure you my list of symptoms differs from day to day.

This is normal for most people unless you are superman or superwoman. (I do not have any research evidence on Bat Man or Bat Woman).

The body gives us a continuous feed of information. When we listen to the moment to moment information our bodies send us, we are in a much better position to make the adjustments that are needed for our body come back into balance. Instead of wishing I want to be “symptom free”, the better wish in my book of wishes is to be “symptom rich”.

If I were “symptom free” for one day, the likelihood my body would be out of balance is reasonably high. If I were symptom free for two days the likelihood my body would be out of balance is extremely high. If I were symptom free for a week, I dare say the probability my body would be out of balance would be assured.

Might I suggest a mantra that is diametrically opposed to waiting on a  cure for Parkinson’s? The mantra I suggest is:

Bring the symptoms on.

Don’t get me wrong. I do not like them one bit. I also do not know what I would do without them. I need the information they give me to hang around the earth for a little longer.

If all of my thoughts zero in on the goal of becoming “symptom free,, there is no time or energy left to think about what I want to create in my life. I really do want to figure out what my soul needs to do in my life before my time is up. But if I choose to spend the rest of my day worrying about just one of my symptoms – say not being able to spell a word this morning – there will be no time in my day to ask my soul what it needs for nourishment. I am choosing to spend my time luxuriating in Worry Land which I visit frequently.

Of course the process is repeated tomorrow as I worry about not being able to remember what I was worrying about the day before. And so the process unfolds day after day as my enthusiasm for life diminishes.

If I focus my thoughts on becoming “symptom free”,

  • I am not listening to my body.
  • I am detached from my body.
  • I am not connecting with the essence of who I am.

Because I am disconnected with my body, my symptoms in the moment will be sure to fester as other symptoms surface.

As I write this paragraph, I am not even aware of any of the symptoms that I listed a few minutes ago that were pestering me. I am not aware of them because my attention is focused in the moment on writing which is a true love of my life. Focus on writing and my energy sores. Focus on getting rid of my symptoms and my energy slides into the sewer.

How to Shift Thinking Away from Hoping for a Cure for Parkinson’s 

Bodies get out of balance. It happens. It happens to everyone. The body always strives to return to balance. The natural state for the body is health and wellness, not disease and illness. How do I shift my hamster wheel of negative thinking which I have been riding on since childhood?

First, I recognize I can choose the thoughts I wish to think. I am the master of my own thoughts. I can spend my day fighting against the symptoms of the day because I am determined to be “symptom free.” Yes, I can wait patiently on a cure for Parkinson’s.

Or, I can nourish my body with positive thoughts that will nourish my life force. I can write. I can dream. I can forward plan my life so that I am living the life I choose to live.

Second, I change my thinking habits. I can forward plan my day as the first activity of my day. It is 7:30 am. I have just woken up.

  • How do I want to spend my time today?
  • What do I want to accomplish?
  • What do I want to see happen?
  • What do I want to see happen in my life today?
  • What do I want to see happen in my life this month?
  • What do I want to see happen in my life this year and next year?

The more I can detail out what I want my future to look like, the more I can

  • sense it,
  • feel it,
  • taste it,
  • hear it,
  • see it,

The more energy the thought will manifest. If I spend my day contemplating what I do not want to experience (like symptoms), my life lacks focus. My energy is drained. My life force is diminished. My body feels clogged down with dead energy. I am able to manifest nothing other than feed the entrapment of my own ego which fuels my illness.

So thanks for whether they will ever be a cure for Parkinson’s.  It has helped my realize that if I begin counting the number of people who are “symptom free”, I will be oiling everyone’s hamster wheel of negative thinking. When suspended in a space of negative thought forms, no one is in a position to manifest balance and harmony in their life.

I get energy from forward planning my life. I lose energy from addicting myself to negative, depressing thoughts that drag me down into the pit of dark depression. My ego is always inviting me into the “mind sewer” of negative thinking.

I have decided it is my best interest to refuse the invitations. Mind sewers smell bad. Mind sewers are stagnant. Mind sewers breed disease. Mind sewers promote illness. They are not a good place to live.

I choose to whisk away all the negativity in my thoughts. I do not have any control over ending wars in the middle east or curbing drug related deaths in New York City. I can control what I choose to think.

When I choose to focus my thoughts during the day on what I want to accomplish during my lifetime, I feel lighter, more alive, more energetic and more powerful. When my mind becomes a fertile garden of positive thoughts, miracles do happen. Often. This feeds my life force and is a far better choice than waiting on a cure for Parkinson’s.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

© 2024 Parkinsons Recovery

Parkinsons and Anxiety

Robert :I spoke with you several weeks ago
and I am having difficulty with Parkinsons and anxiety.
 Would sure like some advice.

Norma

Parkinsons disease and anxiety go hand in hand. When anxiety rears its ugly
head, symptoms inevitably flare up. A wise step that offers relief from symptoms is to embrace methods, therapies and techniques to get anxiety under control.

People with Parkinson’s experience anxiety in part due to the unpredictability of their symptoms and the challenges of living with a chronic condition.

Everyone knows when they have anxiety. Familiar symptoms of anxiety in people with Parkinson’s include:

  • Excessive worry
  • Restlessness
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Physical symptoms like increased heart rate or sweating

When it comes to finding relief from anxiety, Craniosacral
therapy and Bowen therapy can be very beneficial. They both invite
traumas that are embedded in the body at the cellular level
to release. Once released, the potential for anxiety is brought under
control.

I have also developed a three month Shut Down Anxiety
online course that covers proven methods and therapies that
covers proven methods and therapies that
do in fact shut down anxiety. Visit the link below for
more information about Parkinsons and anxiety and to register.

Shut Down Anxiety

Once anxiety is under control, a welcome reduction of
symptom severity follow.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

© 2024 Parkinsons Recovery

Holistic Healing

  • How long does it really take to become symptom free with holistic healing?
  • Can I feel better if I embrace a holistic healing approach designed to reverse my symptoms?
  • Is it really possible for anyone to become symptom free?
  • I do not want to experience pain in my recovery process. Doesn’t pain mean I am doing something wrong?

These are the questions members of my audience have been asking for many years. I have included below a clip with my interview with Howard Shifke who addresses all of these questions. He succeeded in becoming symptom free by embracing holistic healing.

If you have been asking any of these questions, please listen to this clip of my interview on Parkinsons Recovery Radio with Howard Shift. He addresses them all.

Howard’s Website and Blog:

As Howard so eloquently explains,  holistic healing for Parkinson’s disease focuses on addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—rather than just the physical symptoms. Here are some of the approaches involved with this natural approach to healing from the inside out.

1. Nutrition

  • Balanced Diet: Emphasize whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Foods rich in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, may help combat oxidative stress.
  • Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is essential for overall health.

2. Exercise

  • Physical Activity: Regular exercise can improve mobility, balance, and overall quality of life. Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling are beneficial.
  • Strength and Flexibility Training: Yoga and tai chi can enhance flexibility, balance, and mental well-being.

3. Mindfulness and Stress Management

  • Meditation and Mindfulness: Practices can reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.
  • Breathing Exercises: Techniques like deep breathing can help manage anxiety.

4. Massage and Bodywork

  • Therapeutic Massage: Can help reduce muscle tension and improve circulation.
  • Acupuncture: Some people find relief from symptoms through acupuncture treatments.

Bottom Line to Holistic Healing

Is it really possible to become symptom free if a person confronts symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Howard Shifke’s answer is – simply put – yes. Does it take time and patience? Yes. Will you get discouraged? Yes. Will you want to give up? Yes. Will it be worth it in the end even if it seems to take forever to succeed. Yes indeed.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Toxic Exposure

When I present the argument that toxic exposure is
one factor that causes the symptoms of
Parkinson’s, some people immediately reply,

I have never been exposed, so toxins can not
be a factor in my case.

Clearly, they may be dead right. Toxic exposure  may
not a primary factor or even a
contributing factor. But let me give you a
reason why you may have been exposed to toxins
and did not even know it.

For 30 years government laws have
required the application of fire retardants
(polybrominated diphenyl ethers (or PBDEs)
in clothes, furniture and bedding to
withstand 12 seconds of contact with an
open flame. This toxin can be detected in
the furniture and clothes in most homes
in the United States.

What is the big deal you ask with this toxic exposure?
This particular toxin causes a disruption in the production
of thyroid hormones and, to make matters worse,
interferes with functioning of the nervous system.

So you say, if the toxin is in the bedding of
furniture, surely it is no big deal. If it is not
disturbed, surely it can’t cause me any harm!

I honor your optimism, but I am afraid it is
unfounded. The chemical is released from
the furniture in tiny dust particles that
are released from normal wear and tear.

A reason this news is particularly problematic for
Parkinson’s is that functioning of the thyroid
is primary to being able to balance the over
40 hormones in the body.

So – do you and I have toxins in our body? My answer is
yes indeed. I have only identified one among dozens of
toxins that inflame Parkinsons symptoms. We all need to
take detox protocols seriously.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

© 2026 Parkinsons Recovery

Parkinsons Nutrition

Just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate receiving your newsletter. My husband has PD and I seem to do more research all the time in learning how to help him do well. I am particularly interested in the fundamentals of Parkinsons nutrition.   He presently take kaunch sand (he calls it that) along with 1 Sinement twice a day. This seems to keep him fairly well…not much shaking, but legs sometimes get weak (he rakes leaves, etc…overdoes at times).

He has diabetes type 2 and is on meds for that…would love to get him off! But that might be too much for him to try! We thank God for His help and for you and the hope you offer through your newsletter. I have a CD of ‘Sit and be fit’ for PD sufferers. Hoping to get him started on those exercises.

I’m still looking for a multi-vitamin that is more specifically geared for those with PD. My husband can’t take any large pills or capsules, that is a problem.

THANKS again for your positive and exceptional coverage on PD.

Betty

Thanks so much for your kind words. They are an inspiration.

One approach to identify the best Parkinsons nutrition options is to do testing. Many naturopaths do testing to ascertain the best Parkinsons nutrition for a patient. Everyone is different. so there is no single best approach for everyone.

There are various forms of testing, but they all yield helpful information
about deficiencies in the body which inform specific supplements that
are needed. I have personally gone the testing route with saliva testing and it has been
very helpful.

There is another approach I think is worth considering. Begin placing an
emphasis on putting good food into the body every day. I personally do this in two ways. I juice live food as often as possible. And, I purchase canisters of Perfect Food from the Garden of Life. This is ground up food in powder form.

They also have “horse pills” which I can not swallow. I also have a terrible problem taking pills. With Perfect Food in powder form I put the powdered food in water and drink it – no pills are required. There are other excellent companies that offer good food in powder form. Perfect Food is just what I use. It was recommended by my naturopath.

The idea is to begin giving the body the fuel what it needs every day to
function, maintain balance and sustain good health. Over time, most of
the vitamin and mineral deficiencies will be addressed.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

©  Parkinsons Recovery

Light Therapy for TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury)

As summarized in my video below, studies have reported promising results using photobiomodulation light therapy for TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury).  Posted below are short abstracts of a selection of studies that focus on traumatic brain injury. Anyone with a TBI challenge should take this option to facilitate recovery seriously.

To put this in perspective, photobiomodulation (previously known as low level laser therapy) was little known five years ago. Researchers who explore its application to a wide range of health conditions has skyrocketed over recent years.

Included  below small sampling of the dozens of studies that recommend photobiomodulation as a treatment for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

Research Studies on Photobiomodulation Light Therapy for TBI 

J Neurotrauma. .2023 Feb;40(3-4):210-227. Photobiomodulation in Acute Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Photobiomodulation is a therapeutic modality that has gained increasing interest in neuroscience applications, including acute traumatic brain injury (TBI). Its proposed mechanisms for therapeutic effect when delivered to the injured brain include antiapoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Eighteen published articles were identified for inclusion: seventeen pre-clinical studies of in vivo animal models and one clinical study in human patients. The available human study supports safety and feasibility of Photobiomodulation in acute moderate TBI.

This systematic review provides substantial meta-analysis evidence of the benefits of PBM on functional and histological outcomes of TBI.

****************

Cells. 2024 Feb 23;13(5):385. Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery with Photobiomodulation: Cellular Mechanisms, Clinical Evidence, and Future Potential. Lew Lim

Abstract

The objective of this study is to analyze transcranial photobiomodulation which employs specific red to near-infrared light wavelengths to modulate brain functions, as a promising therapy to address TBI’s complex pathophysiology in a single intervention. This study reviews the feasibility of this therapy, firstly by synthesizing PBM’s cellular mechanisms with each identified TBI’s pathophysiological aspect. The outcomes in human clinical studies are then reviewed.

The findings support PBM’s potential for treating TBI, notwithstanding variations in parameters such as wavelength, power density, dose, light source positioning, and pulse frequencies. In summary, transcranial PBM represents a multifaceted therapeutic intervention for TBI with vast potential which may be fulfilled by optimizing the parameters.

****************

J Lasers Med Sci. 2022 Dec 13:13:e65. Transcranial Infrared Laser Stimulation for the Treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury: A Case Series

Abstract

Introduction:
This study intended to evaluate the safety and possible therapeutic effect of photobiomodulation among patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods: Eleven participants who were diagnosed with TBI after full neurological examination and MRI evaluation by a board-certified neurologist completed five to eight 20-minute sessions

Results: All patients enrolled in this study protocol were able to tolerate the study procedures. Nine out of eleven participants had clinically significant improvements in GRC score (? +2). Neuropsychological testing and mood questionnaire outcomes also suggested a positive therapeutic effect.

Conclusion: This study provides preliminary evidence supporting the safety and potential efficacy of photobiomodulation as a non-invasive clinical intervention for individuals with TBI.

****************

Ageing Res Rev. 2023 Jan:83:101786. Can transcranial photobiomodulation improve cognitive function? A systematic review of human studies

Abstract

Background:
Transcranial photobiomodulation has been studied for over a decade as a possible cognitive intervention.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of photobiomodulation for enhancing human cognitive function in healthy adults and remediating impaired cognitive function in adults with cognitive disorders.

Methods: A systematic literature search from three electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) was conducted from 1987 to May 2022. The cognitive function being evaluated included learning and memory, attention, executive function, language, and global cognitive function.

Results: Of the 35 studies identified, 29 (82.9 %) studies reported positive improvement in cognitive functions after tPBM. All nine studies on participants with subjective memory complaints, mild cognitive impairment, and dementia, showed positive outcomes. Seven (87.5 %) studies on traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients also showed positive results.

Conclusions: Photobiomodulation seems to improve cognitive function

****************

Photomed Laser Surg. 2018 Nov 28. Pulsed Transcranial Red/Near-Infrared Light Therapy Using Light-Emitting Diodes Improves Cerebral Blood Flow and Cognitive Function in Veterans with Chronic Traumatic Brain Injury: A Case Series

Abstract

Objective: This study explored the outcome of applying red/near-infrared light therapy using light-emitting diodes (LEDs) pulsed with three different frequencies transcranially to treat traumatic brain injury (TBI) in Veterans.

Background: Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) using LEDs has been shown to have positive effects on TBI in humans and animal models.

Methods: Twelve symptomatic military Veterans diagnosed with chronic TBI >18 months post-trauma received pulsed transcranial photobiomodulation using two neoprene therapy pads containing 220 infrared and 180 red LEDs over 6 weeks.

Results: Photobiomodulation significantly improved neuropsychological scores in 6 of 15 subscales (40.0%; p < 0.05; two tailed). SPECT analysis showed increase in rCBF in 8 of 12 (66.7%) study participants. Quantitative SPECT analysis revealed a significant increase in rCBF in this subgroup of study participants and a significant difference between pre-treatment and post-treatment.

Conclusions: Photobiomodulation using LEDs shows promise in improving cognitive function and Cerebral Blood Flow several years after TBI.

****************

Front Psychol. 2024 Jun 17:15:1378570. Can transcranial photobiomodulation improve cognitive function in TBI patients? A systematic review

Abstract

Introduction:
Transcranial photobiomodulation is a non-invasive neuromodulation technology which has become a promising therapy for treating many brain diseases. Although it has been confirmed in studies targeting neurological diseases including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s that photobiomodulation can improve cognitive function, the effectiveness of interventions targeting TBI patients remains to be determined. This systematic review examines the cognitive outcomes of clinical trials concerning photobiomodulation in the treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods: We conducted a systematic literature review, following the PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched before October 31, 2023.

Results: The initial search retrieved 131 articles, and a total of 6 studies were finally included for full text-analysis after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Conclusion: Results showed improvements in cognition for patients with chronic TBI after photobiomodulation intervention. The mechanism may be that photobiomodulation increases the volume of total cortical gray matter, subcortical gray matter, and thalamic, improves cerebral blood flow, functional connectivity, and cerebral oxygenation, improving brain function.

About Vielight Photobiomodulation Devices

The company, Vielight, has generously offered followers of Parkinsons Recovery a 10% discount off orders of any of their devices including Neuro Gamma device. Enter the coupon code healing4me on the shopping cart. The website: www.vielight.com 
Do not hesitate to call the company. They always provide four star service and are happy to answer all of your questions. 1-877-355-8012 (Main line). The company is located in Toronto Canada.

Warranty

Vielight is so confident in its new product that you get six (6) months to try out their newly invented photobiomodulation therapy. If for any reason you are not satisfied, you can return it for a 80% refund. I have never heard of a company that is so confident in their product that such a generous warranty can be extended. They obviously have high confidence in their new invention.

Experience of hundreds of members of my audience is certainly positive. Nine out of ten users retain their units. Only one out of ten return them to claim the 80% refund.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Declaration of Independence

To succeed with a recovery program it is critical to take control over your recovery. Below is a declaration of independence I recommend you endorse by applying your signature below.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Declaration of Independence

In the beginning, one cell was formed inside the womb of my mother that captured the wisdom of all that I am today. The wisdom of one is 10 billion times seven fold  today as I am equipped today with a mind to organize my thoughts, a heart to evaluate them and a voice to express them.

At this time and this hour I declare my mind, heart and voice to be independent of any and all control over the health and well being of my body.

I acknowledge the miracle of life itself.

I celebrate the ability of my body to rejuvenate despite any and all limitations I currently experience.

I see limitless possibilities to manifest any and all of my dreams.

I cast off any and all limitations for recovery I have imposed on myself and imposed by others.

I assert the independent responsibility to decide what actions are in my best and highest good.

I acknowledge that the conditions which foster imbalances in my body are complex and multi-faceted.

On this day I ask for and openly receive healing.

I pledge from this day forward to listen to the wisdom of my body.

I commit to take any and all actions that are needed and necessary to bring my body back into balance.

I welcome the opportunity to transform bad habits that have been making me ill.

I refute the oppressive and dehumanizing claims that recovery is not possible.

I accept and welcome full responsibility for the health and wellness of my body.

I acknowledge that a therapy or treatment that helps one person may not necessarily be helpful to others or myself.

I commit to continue my journey down the road to recovery with the intention to persevere despite any and all setbacks and challenges I encounter along the way.

By affixing my signature below, I join with others who honor the power of the body to heal itself as I restore, rejuvenate and regenerate the inner wisdom of my body to heal itself.

_____________________                                                                                _______
Declaration of Independence Signature                                                       Date

Incontinence Natural Treatment

Exercises that tighten your pelvic floor muscles reduce urinary incontinence symptoms. The Kegel exercise is an incontinence natural treatment that helps you celebrate uninterrupted nights of sleep.

Tighten your pelvic floor several times a day whether sitting or standing.

  • Identify your pelvic floor muscles that are what you use to stop the flow of urine.
  • Tighten these muscles and hold for 3 seconds. Then …
  • Relax these muscles for 3 seconds.
  • Repeat 10 times.

Recommended Daily Routine for the Kegel Incontinence Natural Treatment

Aim for a total of 30 pelvic floor contractions each day.
Spread the exercises throughout the day rather than doing them all at once.
Consider doing both short and long contractions

It may take a month or longer to celebrate an interrupted night of sleep.

Additional Benefits

* Improves blood circulation to the pelvic floor and vagina, potentially enhancing arousal and lubrication.
* Helps tighten the vagina after childbirth.
* Benefits men with overactive bladder symptoms or post-prostate surgery incontinence.

Make Kegel exercises a part of your daily routine and celebrate hours of interrupted sleepIncontinence natural treatment because the urgency to pee does not wake you up every two hours.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery®
https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com

Triumph Over Tremors

Do you currently experience worrisome tremors? If so, I invite you to watch my short video below and listen to my 30 minutes interview with Bobby Krause, founder of Be Still Foundation, on his triumph over tremors.

Bobby Krause discusses how Focused Ultrasound changed his life below:

www.bestill.foundation 

Below is Bobby’s story

As a college athlete turned sales executive and father of two, I loved to live large and make the most of every moment. This was until a “nervous tick” began to occur in my left arm. After a series of doctor’s appointments, MRI’s and a pivotal appointment with a neurologist in 2016, my and my family’s lives were forever altered when I was diagnosed with young onset Parkinson’s Disease at the age of 42.

After my diagnosis, the harmless tick evolved into a relentless, debilitating tremor throughout the left side of my body. These tremors caused constant pain, embarrassment and a significant decline in my quality of life. I struggled to focus on life happening around me. I could not conduct business meetings without distraction. The tremors escalated greatly under the pressure of intense situations like coaching my son’s basketball games. I wondered how life could go on this way.

My Triumph Over Tremors

In 2020, a glimmer of hope emerged when I learned of clinical trials underway for a groundbreaking tremor treatment, called Focused Ultrasound. Thanks to an incredibly generous employer, along with an exceptional medical team at the University of Penn, my life-changing therapy was scheduled for June of 2022.

June 9, 2022, is a day I will never forget. While traveling to the University of Penn for my Focused Ultrasound therapy, I was full of hope, yet I could see my tremors intensify and feel my muscles tighten from the stress of it all. Little did I know, the profound physical and emotional impact the next two hours in the MRI tube would have on my life.

Laying fully conscious on the MRI table was surreal and incomprehensible. In real time, I communicated with the medical staff how and what I was feeling during the five sonication’s I underwent that day. While inside the tube during the third sonication, for the first time in nearly a decade, my body surrendered the tremors, my muscles eased, and the rigid tension melted away and I was finally able to…Be Still!

I’ve had the distinct honor of sharing my journey with Parkinson’s Disease and my Focused Ultrasound therapy experience at prestigious venues like Capitol Hill, Princeton University and within communities such as Rock Steady Boxing. Through these interactions, I’ve witnessed firsthand the hope my story instills. However, this optimism is tempered by the lack of awareness, availability and financial hurdles many face in accessing this treatment. These exchanges with those full of hope but greatly in need, are what sparked the start of Be Still Foundation.

Below are listed the questions I ask him during the interview as he discusses his triumph over tremors.

    1. Tell me about yourself Pre-Parkinson
    2. When were you officially diagnosed with Parkinson’s and what were your symptoms?
    3. How did you initially treat your symptoms and what were the pros and cons of those treatments?
    4. How and when did you become aware of Focused Ultrasound?
    5. Once you learned about focused ultrasound what were your next steps with your family and medical team?
    6. Can you take me through the day of your scheduled treatment?
    7. What side effects did you experience from the procedure?
    8. I understand it’s now been two years since your procedure, are you experiencing tremors again?
    9. What led you to create the Be Still Foundation?
    10. For those interested how can they support the Be Still Foundation?

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery®
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons disease

5HTP for Depression

The following is an inspiring interview about 5HTP for depression with John Schappi in 2011. John was diagnosed with Parkinsons Disease in September, 2009 at age 80.

John discusses his remedies for sleep, incontinence and depression in this inspiring interview with him. Below is a marvelous review of his life. Sadly, John died in 2018. This post is celebrates his life and commitment to helping persons diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

JOHN V. SCHAPPI (Age 88) is a 1952 graduate of Cornell University, John spent nearly 40 years helping build the Bureau of National Affairs (now Bloomberg BNA) into a leading legal publisher. Hired in 1955, he later became associate editor overseeing BNA’s human resource (HR) publications. He also authored Improving Job Attendance, named to Princeton University’s 1988 list of Noteworthy Books in Industrial Relations and Labor Economics.

He retired as BNA’s HR vice president in 1994 but stayed on the company’s board of directors until 1998, completing 20 years on the largely employee-elected board. Outside of BNA, John was active in the Washington, DC, community. From 1982 – 1992, he served on the Whitman-Walker Clinic’s board of directors and as board president in 1990-1991. He was selected for the 1990-1991 class of Leadership Greater Washington and served on its board in 1993-1994.

During his retirement, John enjoyed biking, playing bridge, gardening, and attending theater and dance shows. He travelled frequently and collected friends around the globe, especially in Nepal. He continued to write, sharing his experiences on his blog, Aging, Parkinson’s and Me where is highlighted the value to him of taking 5HTP for depression.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2024
Parkinsons Recovery®
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease
https://www.parkinsonsdisease.me

Self Discipline and Determination

Robert you are doing fantastic work: You’ve given me hope through your Parkinsons Recovery Radio program which I’ve never had before. It’s now six years since I was diagnosed, and I’m as young as you are; and I still more or less succeed in running my own medical equipment manufacturing company. However although I am looked after by one of London’s most eminent Neurologists, he has never given me the slightest suggestion that the symptoms can be over come with proper self discipline and determination….

But you have opened my eyes and by your enthusiasm, your profound study of the subject matter, you have transformed my attitude single handed. You are true hero, and I salute your efforts with all my heart.

I have a young first family with a three children of 8,10 and 12 and I have every thing to live for. But it is you that has transformed my attitude to life with Parkinson’s. Now I can see that its possible for me look forward to ten years time when I now still expect to be able to go skiing with my children, rather than dreading as before that they would not want to be seen with their then doddery Dad. You’ve shown me the light and the hope, and with that I can fight like hell to make sure my children are not robbed of their entitlement in a father.

Robert, I thank you for everything you are doing. May you have the strength to continue for a thousand years. 

Robert W (London)

Foot Whisperer

Angela gave me permission to post her story and pictures below on recent therapies she has found have offered relief from the symptoms of Parkinsons she currently experiences offered by foot whisperer Randy Eady.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease

I met the author, Randy Eady, in Delray Beach, Florida, where he is known as the “Foot Whisperer” for his promotion of whole body health through treatment of the feet. I was intrigued as he had apparently had the same insight as Janice Walton-Hadlock in that PD is related to a blockage of Chi energy in the foot. I saw Randy for several sessions over the period of a month. He calls his work Ancient Walking to Primal Rhythms, a form of “movement meditation.” Each session began with a soak of my feet in a mini hot tub, followed by a foot massage concentrating on acupressure points particularly K1 (kidney 1). He had me try a number of different modalities:

Walking on a pebble mat (also called a Chi mat). At first this hurt a lot like walking on stones but I have become used to it. Randy gave me a pebble mat to take home with me and I use it faithfully every day.

foot whisperer

 

 Wearing shoes with individual toe sleeves. Randy got me a pair of Fila “skelatoes” shoes that are the next best thing to going barefoot. Shoes of this type are all the rage right now in the world of running. I find them exceptionally comfortable and superior to any walking shoe that I have ever owned.

Non-focused eye movement. He gave me a number of exercises to do that help train the sides of the brain to do tasks that formerly the other side had done (at least this is my interpretation of the exercises). -Tai chi. Randy instructed me in the first half dozen movements of tai chi, both sitting and standing. I am afraid I am a slow learner (could never learn to dance either) but feel that tai chi is one of the keys to solving the PD problem which I am coming more and more to believe is an electrical problem that can be corrected.

Counterrotating arms. At least this is something I can do quite easily: rotate one arm clockwise and the other arm counterclockwise. Again, I feel that this is about training the brain and creating new neural pathways.

– Vibroacoustic lounge and vest. Randy obtained both of these on loan and I was able to try both. I had previously used a vibroacoustic lounge at Robert Rodgers “Jump Start to Wellness” workshop in December 2009. In my opinion, the vibroacoustic vest was just as effective. The deep vibrations produced by the vest or lounge seem to entrain the tremors of PD, offering considerable relief. The sessions I had were highly relaxing; indeed, I fell asleep.
It is interesting how a tuning fork held against acupressure points, particularly the one on the top of the head, feels so very good.

Walking in nature. Randy introduced me to Delray Oaks, an incredible nature preserve that was less than half a mile from our condo.  Walking through that park was one of the most joyous experiences I have ever had and I was literally overflowing with gratitude.

And so much more. Foot whisperer Randy Eady is a true Renaissance man for the 21st-century who has something significant to offer to people with movement disorders such as PD.

Blessings from the blessed,

Angela

How to Improve Gait and Balance

Question:

Can you recommend any techniques for how to improve gait and balance? At present I tend to drag my right leg. If I go for a walk I am OK after about half a mile. I tend to drag my leg on short runs and around the house

John

Response:

First, Consider doing Tai Chi on a regular basis. It is a good idea to connect with a teacher who is proficient. There are excellent DVDs on Tai Chi that also extremely helpful if accessed on a regular basis.

Second, listen to the inspiring interview with Dancer Pamela Quinn who offers a variety of dynamite suggestions that provide suggestions for how to improve gait and balance.

One suggestion (among others from Pamela Quinn) for how to improve gait and balance

Third, Pamela offers a number of suggestions to persons with mobility challenges. She suggested for example that you practice kicking a soccer ball using the leg that drags. It helps to wake up that lazy leg.

You obviously do not want to kick a soccer ball while going to work or doing errands. Instead – you simply pretend that you are kicking the soccer ball as you walk from one place to the next. It works just as well as if you were actually kicking it.

Try bouncing a ball as you walk – just as you did when you were a boy. Your foot is dragging because your body is navigating through neural pathways that are dysfunctional. When you bounce a ball while you walk – you create new neural networks. This short circuits the old pathways that are presently hindering that lazy leg’s functionality.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Books
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease
Pioneers of Recovery
Five Steps to Recovery

Resources
Dehydration Therapy: Aquas
Parkinsons Recovery Membership
Eye Drops for Cataracts

 

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