Natural Options that Reverse Symptoms

Author: manabunnow4zph (Page 2 of 37)

Iyengar Yoga Offers Relief from Parkinsons Symptoms

“I want everyone to know that Iyengar Yoga offers
relief from Parkinsons Symptoms. I am 52
and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s

about 4-5 years ago. I do intensive Iyengar yoga
(which is quite physical) and am fit and strong.
I do two, 2 hour classes per week and home
practice. I will be going on a 3 day retreat in a
couple of weeks.”

“I couldn’t live without it. I haven’t had the
need to increase my medication for a couple of
years and rarely visit my neuro. I really
believe that it has slowed down the progression
of the disease. I think the word needs to be
spread!”

Regards
Deborah

How Iyengar Yoga Offers Relief from Parkinsons Symptoms

Iyengar Yoga, a form of Hatha Yoga, is known for its emphasis on precision, alignment, andIyengar Yoga the use of props (like blocks, straps, and blankets) to help individuals practice yoga safely and effectively. It can be especially beneficial for people with Parkinson’s disease, offering a range of benefits that can support physical, emotional, and neurological health.

1. Improves Flexibility and Mobility

Parkinson’s disease often leads to stiffness, rigidity, and reduced range of motion. The slow, deliberate movements in Iyengar Yoga can help to stretch and lengthen muscles, improve joint mobility, and reduce rigidity. The use of props helps make poses more accessible and allows individuals to deepen their stretches gradually.

2. Enhances Balance and Coordination

Parkinson’s disease commonly affects balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falls. Iyengar Yoga’s focus on alignment, posture, and stability helps develop better proprioception (the body’s sense of its position in space). Many of the poses help strengthen the legs, improve posture, and enhance balance, which can reduce the risk of falls and improve overall stability.

3. Increases Strength

Many Iyengar Yoga poses involve holding postures for extended periods, which helps to build strength, especially in the core, legs, and arms. Strengthening these areas can improve posture and support the body in daily movements, making it easier to manage some of the physical symptoms of Parkinson’s.

4. Promotes Breathing and Relaxation

Parkinson’s can affect respiratory function, leading to shallow breathing or difficulty with breath control. Iyengar Yoga emphasizes breath awareness (pranayama) as a central part of the practice, which helps regulate the breath and reduce tension in the body. Learning to use the breath effectively can also reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which is helpful for managing the emotional and psychological challenges of Parkinson’s.

5. Encourages Mental Focus and Mindfulness

Parkinson’s often comes with cognitive challenges, such as difficulty with concentration or executive function. Iyengar Yoga encourages mental clarity and mindfulness through the practice of holding postures and focusing on breath and alignment. This form of yoga can help improve cognitive function and promote a sense of mental calm and clarity.

6. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

The emphasis on mindfulness and breathwork in Iyengar Yoga can help reduce stress, anxiety, and the emotional strain that often accompanies chronic conditions like Parkinson’s. The slower, meditative nature of the practice can foster a sense of calm and mental ease, which can be therapeutic for people with Parkinson’s.

7. Improves Posture and Gait

Parkinson’s disease often leads to a stooped posture and shuffling gait. Iyengar Yoga’s focus on alignment and spinal health can help improve posture, make standing and walking easier, and promote more fluid movement. By practicing specific postures that align and lengthen the spine, individuals can experience improved posture and more confident, efficient movement.

My thanks to Deborah for spreading the good news that
Iyengar Yoga offers relief from Parkinsons symptoms.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

© Parkinsons Recovery

Ayurveda for Parkinsons

The Ayurvedic approach for eliminating heavy metals and toxins from the body is to support the organ that does the proper work in the first place. The following is taken from an interview I recently had with Nathan who is a strong believer in the Ayurveda for Parkinsons approach to eliminate toxins from the body.

When a person is ill their breath can become sort of foul. But that is not the case when they are healthy. Similarly, what we are talking about here is that some organ is not producing healthy elements that are supposed to be transferred to the brain.”

“The brain is supposed to be filled with nutritious, beneficial gasses. Those gases can become polluted due to stress or injury.”

“The organ producing them will produce contaminated substances which then go on to cause a great deal of difficulty in the form of shaking because the corrosive material starts eating away at the part of the brain that produces movement and starts creating involuntary ones.”

Most doctors would not agree that the problem is in the stomach. From the Ayurvedic
perspective,  all diseases originate in the stomach.”

I should also mention that Nathan once suffered from an advanced stage of Parkinsons but is symptom free today. Ayurveda for Parkinsons certainly worked wonders for him. Nathan is one of the contributors to the first edition of Pioneers of Recovery.

In Ayurveda a degeneration of nerve cells is viewed as a disturbance in the body’s subtle energy system, leading to issues like tremors, stiffness, and instability.

A balanced diet is essential in Ayurveda for managing neurological health.

  • Warm, easily digestible foods: Emphasis on warm, cooked foods like soups, stews, and porridges, which are easier to digest and help balance the Vata dosha.
  • Incorporation of healthy fats: Ghee (clarified butter), sesame oil, and coconut oil are recommended to lubricate the body and calm the dryness associated with Vata.
  • Anti-inflammatory foods: Foods like turmeric, ginger, and garlic, which have natural anti-inflammatory properties, can help reduce overall inflammation.
  • Hydration: Drinking warm water or herbal teas throughout the day helps to hydrate the body and keep the nervous system nourished.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

© Parkinsons Recovery

Can I Stop Taking Sinemet to Pursue Natural Therapies?

Dr. Rodgers: I was interested in your suggestion that Parkinson’s is not caused by a lack of dopamine but due to adrenaline, toxic and stress problems. Can I stop taking Sinemet to Pursue Natural Therapies? 

First let me emphasize I am not a medical doctor. You will need to consult with your medical doctor about any changes in your medications or doses.

The issue I raise is to explore the reasons for a dopamine depletion. If caused primarily by anxiety, then getting anxiety attacks under control will go a long way toward reducing the need for a medication or dopamine supplement.

You do not mention if you have celebrated any improvement after taking Sinemet. The most common reports of improvement are a reductions in anxiety and muscle pain,  improvements in sleep and better energy. Have you experienced any of these welcome outcomes from taking the medications? They certainly do offer benefits to many.

You ask:  Can I Stop Taking Sinemet to Pursue Natural Therapies? There can be serious consequences if you stop taking your medications abruptly. The addictive properties to some medications for Parkinson’s make it particularly difficult – and even dangerous – to stop taking them cold turkey.

I have heard sad reports from people who tried to go off of their medications cold turkey. These reports say that people have found themselves in the unfortunate situation of having to go back on their medications at an even higher dose – sometimes twice as high – when compared to the dose they were taking the day they tried to quit.

The decision to wean yourself off of your medications is a serious one. Be sure to consult with your doctor if you consider doing something like this. Some people are able to successfully reduce the dose they take. In these cases the reduction is gradual and, again, conducted only with the close supervision of their doctor.

In addition to working with your doctor about medications and supplements, begin investigating the cause of your symptoms. There are many possible causes (toxins, trauma, stress, infections to name a few). Many people celebrate relief from symptoms while identifying and addressing the cause (or causes). The two together can be a winning combination especially when the medications offer symptom relief even if temporary.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

© Parkinsons Recovery

Natural Substitutes for Sugar

What are some natural substitutes for sugar? 

What we put into our bodies is the most important
factor in finding relief from the symptoms
of Parkinsons. It is no secret that sugar is not good for
our bodies, right?

Sugar is a neurotoxin. You know this. I know this.
Everyone knows this.

Do you ever eat sugar? You can not see me now, but
I am raising my hand at the moment. I eat sugar
sometimes. OK. Sometimes I eat too much sugar.

Why? I am filling a hole deep inside. I can’t get enough.
You know the list. Whatever.

No matter how much work I do “on myself” I still
eat sugar. So, if I come to the realization that my
preference for sweets will not abate anytime soon,
what can I do about it?

There are alternatives to sugar. Why not investigate
the alternatives that can be used in place of using raw cane
sugar. Then start using an alternative to pure sugar
that is right for you?

Know in advance that you may not be able to
tolerate one or more of the alternatives. That is,
the alternative may be worse for you than raw sugar
itself. But why not celebrate in advance
how much your body will thank you if you can find
a natural and safe substitute for sugar that your
body can tolerate?

Four natural substitutes for sugar are
agave, stevia, xylitol and monk fruit. What follows is a sketch of
information about each of the four alternatives.

Agave

Agave syrup is a sweetener commercially produced
in Mexico. Agave syrup is sweeter than honey,
though less viscous. It consists primarily of fructose
and glucose.

Agave has a fructose content that is higher than is found
in high-fructose corn syrup. Agave is notable in that its
glycemic index and glycemic load are seemingly lower than
most other natural sweetener alternatives.

Stevia

Stevia is native to subtropical and tropical South America
and Central America. Known as Sweetleaf, stevia is
used as a sugar substitute. The taste has a
longer duration than that of pure sugar. Stevia however
can be associated with a bitter after taste at high
concentrations.

Xylitol

Xylitol sounds like an expensive prescription
medication, but it is not. It is a five-carbon sugar
alcohol that is used as a sugar substitute.

Xylitol is a naturally occurring sweetener that can
be found in the fibers of fruits and vegetables such as
berries, corn husks, oats, and even mushrooms.
It is extracted from corn fibers, birch trees, raspberries,
plums, and even corn. Xylitol is by all accounts as sweet
as regular sugar.

Xylitol has been around a long time. It is used as
a sweetener for diabetics in some countries and it
is used in various products like gums and toothpaste
to reduce tooth decay.

Monk Fruit

Monk fruit is a small, green fruit native to southern China
and northern Thailand. It is a natural sweetener because it
contains mogrosides, compounds that are intensely sweet
but contain little to no calories or sugar.

Monk fruit is about 150 to 250 times sweeter than sugar,
meaning only a small amount is needed to achieve the
desired sweetness. Its sweetness comes from the mogrosides,
which are heat-stable and not metabolized by the body, s
o they don’t contribute calories or spike blood sugar levels.

Summary

Check out the possibilities. Do an extended search on
the internet for more information. Talk with your doctor.
Experiment.

You can buy xylitol, stevia, agave and monk fruit from most
health food stores, food co-ops and even some grocery
stores.

I think a safe and natural food sweetener is a delightful
choice for people like myself who love to eat a yummy
dessert every now and then. If you are like me, consider
a switch from sugar to a natural substitute.

There is no direct research evidence to indicate that using
alternatives to sugar will help relieve the symptoms of
Parkinson’s. Base on pure logic, it makes sense to me that
using any of the four natural substitutes for sugar has the potential to
help unclog neural pathways.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

© Parkinsons Recovery

Dogs with a Nose for Parkinsons

PADs for Parkinson’s is the only nonprofit organization in North America dedicated to the training of dogs for the detection of Parkinson’s Disease. Today, PADs supports and maintains 18 dogs in the program ranging from Poodles to Pomeranians. Schnauzers to Shepherds. Herding to Hunting. All with the amazing ability to sniff out an odor molecule among hundreds of thousand of organic compounds.

PADs has been training dogs for Parkinson’s detection since early 2016. Just four months after the discovery of an odor associated with Parkinson’s Disease. The PADs training facility is located in the Northwest on San Juan Island. You can visit PADs online at padsforparkinsons.org

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery 

Excessive Weight Loss

I have a concern with excessive weight loss over a long period of time. Believe me when I say that I eat like a hungry farm animal. Even so, I am 20 pounds under my normal weight of 160. I am also experiencing weakness in my legs mostly in the hamstring muscle group.

Have you come across ways in which people have found an antidote to excessive weight loss whether it be a product like an enzyme for better food absorption, or foods/food supplements that have proven to add muscle mass? Is it mainly a protein deficiency or can fat absorption be part of the issue too? Am I eating foods that I should stay away from? What have you learned from folks who have been able to add weight and gain strength too?

Here is my typical diet:

Breakfast: Mung beans with either quinoa, millet, or wild rice with celtic sea salt and coconut oil.Eggs with gluten free rice flour bread

Lunch: Usually lunch meat consisting of turkey, ham, roast beef on the rice bread or alone. Sometimes a meat or turkey burger – The mung bean/ grain option

Dinner: A protein of fish, fowl , beef or lamb with any number of steamed vegetables. Occasionally rice or white potatoes.

Other options during the day or night might be hemp protein, chlorella, spirulina, Green Vibrance, shake. An assortment of fruits usually apples, oranges, bananas, peaches, berries. Almonds and wall nuts also.

Oils: high quality fermented cocoanut oil, some salmon oil too. Very little of any other kind.

Probably eat too much sugar in the form of gluten free cookies, poured honey over almonds, wall nuts, toast, or rice crackers. I will dip into the organic berry jellies a bit. I am not sure if I am overdoing it. Beer and wine in social situations are a possible concern too.   

Thank you

Kevin

Keep in mind that I am not a medical doctor so anything I might suggest about excessive weight loss is purely from a research perspective. I have several lines of investigation you might want to pursue:

First, your diet is awesome. Your body loves everything you are eating. You might consider using red potatoes rather than white.

Second, The high energy in the nutritious foods you are eating is clearly not being absorbed by your digestive system. You do not mention probiotics which are essential requirement for a healthy digestive system. These are the “good” bacteria that your digestive system needs to perform its function. There are many different types of probiotics. Do some research here and see what your intuition guides you to do.

Third, I do not see many fats listed. Listen to my radio show with naturopath John Briggs. He provides an excellent overview that explains the challenges you currently confront.

You also need fat in your diet.  Myelin sheaths which provide insulation for the neurons need fat to remain vibrant.

Fourth – and this may be a key – you may have an infestation of candida (yeast) infection. Candida gobble up sugar and create digestive issues in the body. Candida drive us to eat a lot of sugar which is their lifeline.

Lidia Epp resolved her own neurological symptoms by eliminating the overabundance of candida in her body. Candida is not necessarily just found in the digestive system. It leaks out into all the tissues and cells of the body (including the neurons).

Fifth, your output of energy is greater than the input (provided through food). It is likely that the mitochondria (at the cellular level) are compromised. You might consider giving them a little extra boast through a supplement called ribose. This might be something your could discuss with your doctor.

These are a few new areas to investigate to address your excessive weight loss. Speaking purely as a researcher l would look outside your diet as the source of the weight loss and muscle atrophy.

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

 

Photobiomodulation for Parkinson’s Disease

Photobiomodulation for Parkinson’s Disease

Finally! I have been eagerly waiting to learn results of a 3 year Australian photobiomodulation for Parkinson’s disease study that examined the impact of light therapy (using Vielight.com devices – 10% coupon code healing4me – as a treatment for persons diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Results are now published.

Documented reductions in Parkinson’s symptoms far exceeded my expectations. Measures of mobility, cognition, dynamic balance and fine motor skill for the 12 Parkinson’s research subjects were significantly improved (p < 0.05) with photobiomodulation treatment for 12 weeks and up to one year.

Many individual improvements were above the minimal clinically important differences, the threshold judged to be meaningful for participants. Individual improvements varied but many continued for up to one year with sustained home treatment.

The design of this study was eloquent. Participants were assessed for mobility, fine motor skills, balance and cognition before treatment began, after 4 weeks of treatment, then after 12 weeks of treatment and then at the end of the home treatment period.

Researchers drew the following conclusions:

“PBM (photobiomodulation) was shown to be a safe and potentially effective treatment for a range of clinical signs and symptoms of PD. Improvements were maintained for as long as treatment continued, for up to one year in a neurodegenerative disease where decline is typically expected.”

The abstract of the study follows:

BMC Neurol. 2021 Jul 2;21(1):256. Improvements in clinical signs of Parkinson’s disease using photobiomodulation: a prospective proof-of-concept study. Ann LiebertBrian BicknellE-Liisa LaaksoGillian HellerParastoo JalilitabaeiSharon TilleyJohn MitrofanisHosen Kiat

Abstract

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with no cure and few treatment options. Its incidence is increasing due to aging populations, longer disease duration and potentially as a COVID-19 sequela. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has been successfully used in animal models to reduce the signs of PD and to protect dopaminergic neurons.

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of PBM to mitigate clinical signs of PD in a prospective proof-of-concept study, using a combination of transcranial and remote treatment, in order to inform on best practice for a larger randomized placebo-controlled trial (RCT).

Methods: Twelve participants with idiopathic PD were recruited. Six were randomly chosen to begin 12 weeks of transcranial, intranasal, neck and abdominal PBM. The remaining 6 were waitlisted for 14 weeks before commencing the same treatment. After the 12-week treatment period, all participants were supplied with PBM devices to continue home treatment. Participants were assessed for mobility, fine motor skills, balance and cognition before treatment began, after 4 weeks of treatment, after 12 weeks of treatment and the end of the home treatment period. A Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test was used to assess treatment effectiveness at a significance level of 5%.

Results: Measures of mobility, cognition, dynamic balance and fine motor skill were significantly improved (p < 0.05) with PBM treatment for 12 weeks and up to one year. Many individual improvements were above the minimal clinically important difference, the threshold judged to be meaningful for participants. Individual improvements varied but many continued for up to one year with sustained home treatment. There was a demonstrable Hawthorne Effect that was below the treatment effect. No side effects of the treatment were observed.

Conclusions: PBM was shown to be a safe and potentially effective treatment for a range of clinical signs and symptoms of PD. Improvements were maintained for as long as treatment continued, for up to one year in a neurodegenerative disease where decline is typically expected. Home treatment of PD by the person themselves or with the help of a carer might be an effective therapy option. The results of this study indicate that a large RCT is warranted.

The Future of Medicine has Arrived

Click on the link below to hear my interview on Parkinsons Recovery Radio with Dr. Lew Lim, CEO of Vielight photobiomodulation devices. This interview was conducted before publication of the photobiomodulation Parkinson’s study.

The future of medicine rests with innovative therapies that utilize light and sound to bring the body back into balance and harmony. Neurons are cells that contain mitochondria. Photobiomodulation energizes neuronal mitochondria, triggering a cascade of beneficial cellular functions. Potential benefits are:

  • Neuroprotective effects.
  • Self-repair mechanisms
  • Enhanced functionality.

Results of this photobiomodulation Parkinson’s study affirm these expectations.

YouTube player

Vielight Warranty

Use any of the Vielight devices for up to six months. If you do not celebrate the relief in symptoms expected, you can return the device for an 80% refund. The company, located in Toronto Canada, obviously has confidence that users will be delighted with the result. Use coupon code healing4me to claim a 10% discount when ordering. https://www.vielight.com.

Call them to get your questions answered. Their staff are incredible.
1-877-355-8012 (Main line). Phone-in hours are from 9 am – 5 pm EST, Monday to Friday.

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

 

 

Neuro-Linquistic Programming (NLP)

What follows is a transcription of my interview
with  Carl Buchheit, a national expert in Neuro-linquistic
Programming or NLP. I was interested
in exploring with Carl whether NLP can be
useful in helping people with Parkinson’s.

Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) is a collection
of techniques and strategies that help people change
their thoughts and behaviors. It is based on the concept
that language, neurological processes, and behavioral
patterns are inter-connected.

I asked him the following question.

“Can NLP be used by persons who
have the symptoms of Parkinson’s
who would like to be able to
celebrate relief from their symptoms?”

Carl’s answer follows.

“I have worked with a number of
folks who have Parkinson’s.
The answer is yes. I am sure
like just about everyone else
you are talking to this is
really, really difficult
territory.”

“What we typically find and
pay attention to  which
we always do when we are
dealing with any kind of
change working with the N
LP model is – as preposterous
as this question might sound:”

‘What are the intended positive
outcomes of the symptoms, of the
illness?’

“We pre-suppose that all experience,
all behavior (Parkinson’s included)
however difficult it is and is
all prompted by some kind of
intended positive outcome.”

“Now the question is what version
is this, where and when?”

“When people are in such distress
with the symptoms it is really
difficult to imagine that there
could be anything positive
trying to happen as I am sure
everyone can easily imagine.”

“What we usually do is ask this
first question when we are
doing NLP change:”

‘What would you like?’

“That can take two hours to answer
obviously or it can take two days.”

“Then we ask:”

‘What will having that do for you?’

‘Is there anything you might lose
that you value when you have the
outcome that you like?’

“I have had some experience with
people who have shifted their
symptoms quite a bit and several
other people not at all. So I
have a mixed report.”

Interested in learning more about
NLP? Carl recommends that you
read:
Introducing NLP Neuro-Linguistic Programming: Psychological Skills for Understanding and Influencing People (1995)

You can also reach him through
his clinic.

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

© Parkinsons Recovery

Jaw Misalignment

This may be a little premature but I am so excited I had to write you. I have just determined I have a jaw misalignment. First, let me give a little background.

I was diagnosed with Parkinsons about 13 years ago and have been struggling with this awful disease since. I am a nurse and had to leave my job about a year ago. I have done every alternative Rx you could think of. My symptoms started getting worse and the medication Sinemet was not helping – leaving me very fatigued and not able to walk across the room without assistance.

Then about a week my husband saw an old friend and he purchased some honey and bee pollen from him. I might add this guy is a bee keeper and has his own honey and pollen. Well I started taken a spoon full of pollen with a spoon of his honey and I swear I felt a little better the next day, so I have been faithfully take a spoon of each every morning and feel it given me a lot more energy.

Then I came across your interview with Cheryl which was a blessing. I really believe God put us in the places we need to be at the right time and we all need to tune into our higher self. Listening to Cheryl’s story really interested me because her story sounded a lot like mine. I actually called in and spoke with her. I was the last caller Rose.

I immediately called the Parkinsons Resource Center and talked to Ms Rosen and she got back with me. Since I live in Maryland she suggested I see Dr Branden Stack in VA. And as it turns out he is the Guru of this treatment. I made an appointment and saw him today.

OMG, after his examination he told me my jaw was grossly out of alignment – he stated 1 inch – and immediately gave me an order to get a mri which I immediately went next door and tried to get it done on the same day but could not. I have to wait and get it done tomorrow afternoon. Dr Stack says he can help me.

So I know it is a little premature, but I have a gut feeling correcting my jaw misalignment  is my answer to getting my life back as Cheryl so summed it up in those words. I will keep in touch and let you know my progress. Like I said my mri is tomorrow and my TMJ might have to be corrected with TMJ surgery which is minor. When I think of all the years and all the money I wasted, although I take that back, this was a learning experience and I am truly a different person today because of it. THANK YOU ROBERT.

Rose

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Slow Movement Remedies

Do you have any slow movement remedies to suggest? I never hear this question addressed. Are there any ways to overcome this? It is my worst symptom. People tell me I move very gingerly.

Thank you for your help.

Karen

The big picture is the reprogram your neural networks. It appears that your movements are being controlled by neural pathways that are a bit rusty.

There is no reason for panic! The brain has an incredible capacity to reconfigure pathways. You just have to begin moving a bit differently to configure the new pathways which will make walking easier and require less effort on your part.

First, I suggest that you listen to my interview with Professional Dancer Pamela Quinn from New York City which I aired a number of years ago. Pamela offers a number of suggestions you will find helpful.

Pamela Quinn danced professionally for 20 years with ODC/San Francisco and with actor/writer MichaelO’Connor before being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease at age 42. Pamela has developed an amazing range of creative movements, exercises and dances that have helped herself and others cope with the many and various symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. Learn more about her at www.pamelaquinn.net

Second, I suggest that you add a little music (with a nice hefty beat) when you walk. Use an MP3 player or IPOD or something portable. Find some music you like to listen to which has a marching type of beat. Music with a strong beat does wonders for movements that are slow and cumbersome. Michael Jackson recorded some great songs with incredible beats you can dance to.

Third, there are a number of brain challenge exercises and programs which provide great ways to forge new neural pathways. You might try out a few. They always have free ones to try out on the internet.

Fourth, one of the fun slow movement remedies is this. Inside of thinking of walking from point A to point B, think to yourself that you will dance from Point A to Point B. You may be surprised by the difference created by the different in thought forms.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Surgery Connection to Parkinsons 

Is there a surgery connection to Parkinsons?

There is no research evidence that supports a surgery connectionsurgery connection to Parkinsons
to Parkinsons. However, Scars from surgeries interrupt meridian pathways. It is important to heal the scar tissue so that all channels
of energy that nourish your organs and tissues are unobstructed.

What do I mean by channels? There are well documented energy
pathways in our bodies that are given difference names in
acupuncture: The stomach meridian, the liver meridian, the spleen
meridian, etc. You can find charts of these pathways in the
library or on the internet.

Surgery on your foot or hand or any part of your body for that
matter interrupts the flow of vital energy across any one or more
of these pathways. Acupuncturists place needles along the meridian
lines that need a jump start. It is like recharging the battery of
a car. An acupuncturist may place needles in your foot or neck
to address issues with your digestion or mood.

For example, let’s say you have had surgery on your hip recently.
There is a big scar on your upper thigh that is located at the
center of your body. This scar tissue from hip surgery
creates a systematic interruption in the energy pathways that
nourish one or more of your vital organs.

Check out the meridian charts to see if any surgeries you may have
had lie on a key meridian. Do not be surprised to discover you
may be having difficulty with an organ that is connected with the
meridian that happens to cross the scar tissue.

Let me be clear that no one in the research literature
has identified scar tissue as a factor that is related to the
symptoms of Parkinsons. I personally believe that it
can aggravate the symptoms, so why not address
the problem?

The remedy is cheap and easy to do. No expensive
tests are needed. No prescriptions need be written
by a medical doctor.

Simply find wheat germ oil in a co-op or health food store.
Apply the wheat germ oil to the scar tissue twice daily.
The treatment takes 15 seconds.

You can purchase wheat germ oil in capsule form. Then extract
the wheat germ from the capsule and apply the oil
directly onto any scars that resulted from surgeries.

That is all there is to it.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

© 2024 Parkinsons Recovery

Drumming Relieves Symptoms of Parkinsons

Do you like the title of this article? I do. AreDrumming offers Relief from Parkinsons symptoms
you surprised that drumming relieves
symptoms of Parkinsons?

I am not. I must make a confession before
I tell you more. I have been a drummer
since I was in elementary school. Much of
my time in high school was spent playing in
bands and orchestras. I still love to drum on
anything – chairs, tables, walls and of course
drums of all sizes and shapes.

Some people say drumming relieves
symptoms of Parkinsons so I drum at our Summits.
The purpose of drumming is clearcut: to have fun and feel better.
Drumming fulfills both aspirations effortlessly.
Everyone becomes young again.

The drum is a powerful force in healing.
It:

  • Releases stress
  • Energizes the spirit
  • Heals troubling emotions
  • Releases anger
  • Creates euphoria

It is hard to beat this list, eh? The body’s
ability to heal is boundless. Drumming is
a fundamental way to support this ability.

Dr. Connie Tomaino has found that listening
to drumming gives people with Parkinson’s
better control over their movements and
helps to improve their gait in stressful
situations. Dr. Tomaino, DA, MT-BC, uses
drumming in her work with persons with
neurological challenges including dementia.
Here is her report:

“I once worked with a young person
with Parkinson’s disease who had
trouble initiating movement. I
explored different rhythm patterns
with him. We then made a cassette
of different kinds of African drumming
that he seemed to find very stimulating
and helped him get moving.”

“Anytime he had to walk across a street,
whereas in the past he may freeze, he
would put on his headphones and listen
to African rhythms to get to the other
side without freezing in the middle of
rush hour traffic.”

https://remo.com/

What is Drumming?

You do not have to just listen to drumming.
You can drum yourself. Drumming is stress
free and fun by design.

  • No musical ability is necessary.
    No talent is required.
    No sense of rhythm is necessary.
    No musical training is a prerequisite.

The only requirement is to have a body.
Everyone meets this requirement. Right?
The only agenda is to have fun. Everyone
is qualified to participate.

Any type of drum will do. Bongos, bass
drums, snare drums without the snare,
tympani, hand drums, African drums –
you name it. If it sounds like a drum it
is a drum no matter what it looks like or
how it is made.

You can drum alone or in groups. If you
drum with others, someone in the group can
volunteer to maintain a steady beat – often
like the beat of a human heart. Everyone
else in the group then beats away on their
drum to their hearts content with whatever
beat calls to them.

Some people make simple beats that are
meditative. Others are show offs. It is not
the beat per se that matters. Whatever way
you drum is the right way for you. The room
rocks.

Let no one convince you otherwise. You
may be one who does not like to “keep the
beat.” Good for you. Go for it.

When we are in groups it is fun to sit around
in a circle and drum together. Even if you are
not drumming yourself, it is healing to feel the
thump of the airwaves. The thumbs crawl
under your skin and sit on the lap of your soul.

What you get in return for having fun
by just sitting in the group is euphoria.
What other remedy for Parkinsons can
beat that? You also receive the welcome
benefit of dopamine. Who could use a
little more dopamine today?

Why Drumming Relieves Symptoms of Parkinsons

There is a marked tendency for persons
with Parkinson’s to be hyper-vigilant.
Mental activity is usually turned up to the
top notch.

Hyper-vigilance is a good trait. It is one
reason why people with Parkinson’s
succeed in whatever they choose to do.
But hyper-vigilance also takes a heavy
toll on the human body which has a
foundational need for rest and relaxation.

The body was not designed to pump out
adrenaline 24-7 without registering loud
complaints. You know the story. People
who are always working and never playing
have health problems.

People who are hyper-vigilant also
have a much greater chance of having
no alfa brainwaves. Zero. Drumming
helps to jump start this deficiency by
inducing alfa brainwaves at 8-12 cycles
per second.

The alfa state is that delicious, relaxed
place that ever so gently nudges the
body into a state of pure relaxation, the
place where dopamine is manufactured.
The hyper-vigilant person has difficulty
producing dopamine because they
rarely experience this state.

I suspect that what happens in
transcendental meditation is similar
to what happens with drumming.
Twenty minutes (or so) of a 30
minute transcendental meditation
are spent floating in the alfa state.

Stress and trauma are embodied by a
disconnection from the earth. One good
way to survive stressful circumstances and
trauma (especially when we are young) is to
disassociate from ourselves and from our
surroundings. We yank our roots up from
the earth and let them flop about in thin air.

Drumming helps to connect you back to
the earth. Drumming calls you back to
the embrace of mother earth where it is
safe and exciting to be alive. Drumming
helps you accept everything and everyone –
including ourselves – just as you are.

Drumming invites the body to relax and
unwind. Results happen when you start.
You do not have to wait weeks or
months for the “therapy” to take effect.
Pretty neat, eh?

Testimonials tell us that drumming
helps people with Parkinson’s. We have
no formal research to indicate that it
helps but I say why even bother to do a study?

Why not give it a try and find a drum
today? You can often find great drums
at garage sales for a few dollars.

It certainly cannot hurt you.
It is bound to be fun.
You may laugh while doing it.
When you have fun and laugh …
you give yourself the best dose of
dopamine that exists. It is all natural
and entirely free.

So be honest with me here. Do you think
this is a silly idea? If you do, please take
this opportunity to laugh at me. That will
do you some good for sure!

As for myself, I am on the lookout for
drums at garage sales.
Euphoria is calling me.

Below is a study that affirms the benefits of drumming.

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2024 Apr 22;21(4):514 An Exploration of People Living with Parkinson’s Experience of Cardio-Drumming; Parkinson’s Beats: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study

Abstract

Research has shown that physical activity has a range of benefits for people living with Parkinson’s (PLwP), improving muscle strength, balance, flexibility, and walking, as well as non-motor symptoms such as mood. Parkinson’s Beats is a form of cardio-drumming, specifically adapted for PLwP, and requires no previous experience nor skills. Nineteen PLwP (aged between 55 and 80) took part in the regular Parkinson’s Beats sessions in-person or online. Focus group discussions took place after twelve weeks to understand the impacts of Parkinson’s Beats. Through the framework analysis, six themes and fifteen subthemes were generated.

Participants reported a range of benefits of cardio-drumming, including improved fitness and movement, positive mood, the flow experience, and enhanced social wellbeing.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

© Parkinsons Recovery

 

Therapies for Parkinsons Plus

I was diagnosed with Parkinsons in 2002.
In 2006 I was told that I probably had
Parkinsons+ or CBD. Since then neurologists
have had no suggestions of therapies for
Parkinsons plus.

I wondered if you knew of anything being
used for Parkinsons+.

Your question is the perfect question for
a medical doctor who is trained in a two
step process for treating disease. First,
the condition is given a diagnosis. In your case
it is Parkinsons Plus. Second,
the diagnosis informs a set of therapies for
Parkinsons Plus (though apparently
in this case your neurologists do not have
anything to recommend).

Medical doctors have to be very concerned
about following this protocol or else they
could be sued if something goes wrong.
I am not a medical doctor (I am a researcher),
so I have the latitude of thinking about
the problem differently.

At Parkinsons Recovery I propose a different
model to follow, a model of wellness. The
argument that underpins everything I am
writing about and everything I am discovering
in my research is that the body has an inherent
wisdom to heal.

If there are symptoms, then the body is simply
giving us valuable information about an imbalance;
Perhaps too much stress in your life, perhaps
too much trauma, perhaps too many toxins.
Something is out of balance or overtaxed.

Some people choose to respond to troubling
symptoms by covering them up, numbing them
or otherwise killing them in some fashion or another.

I say – let the symptoms roll on. They are giving
us valuable information about what is up.

With my approach, there is no emphasis on the
disease state. The name is inconsequential –
Parkinson’s, Parkinsons +, MSA – it is of no
consequence. Rather, the focus is on giving the
body what it needs to become healthy. I
propose a positive mind set rather than a
negative mind set.

The bottom line is that if you follow the
traditional disease model, here is what happens:

(1) You receive a diagnosis (and I certainly have
no doubt in your case but that the diagnosis
is sound)

(2) You discover little or nothing can be done
for this particular “disease.”

(3) You get depressed, crawl into a hole and
wait to feel worse.

Using my approach, the sequence is dramatically
different:

(1) You receive information from your body
that something is out of balance (perhaps
there is a nutritional deficiency, perhaps
the stress hormones are overpowering everything
in your body, perhaps your elimination organs
can not handle the heavy traffic of toxins, etc.)

(2) You discover through your own research that
there are hundreds of options for addressing the
problem.

(3) You start experimenting with one approeach or
another and determine what works for you.

(4) You become hopeful, launch out into the world
and begin feeling better.

I prefer the second approach, but I am a little
biased.  When it comes to identifying therapies
for Parkinsons Plus, only your neurologist can
offer suggestions. I do not concern myself with any
specific diagnosis because I am not a medical doctor
and I find the alternative approach to offer the opportunity
for healing.

Where do you find out about the hundreds of
options? One place is right here: Parkinsons Recovery.
I interview people who have the
most interesting and helpful suggestions for
treatments. I have been overwhelmed by the
number of therapies and approaches people have
tried that are helping.

The fun part is to review the options and
determine which ones you want to try on for
size. Keep experimenting and you will find
therapies that will help give relief from
symptoms.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

© Parkinsons Recovery

Treatments for Tremors

What are some treatments for tremors?

Norma

I am very hesitant to provide a listing of all the treatments and therapies people have toldtreatments for tremors me help to relieve their tremors. Why? After all – putting out such as list would impress everyone, wouldn’t? This guy has great suggestions people would say. Well – maybe.

I do offer suggestions in my books by way of reference, but the problem I have with providing specifics is that I know little about your actual situation. The question itself hits up against the strategy of masking symptoms rather than identifying the root cause.

When there are tremors – as in your case – your body is sending you a strong message that something is seriously out of balance.
Perhaps the imbalance involves exposure to toxins.
Perhaps it involves a past trauma that is unresolved.
Perhaps it involves living a stressful life that offers your body little relief from a continuous adrenaline rush.
Perhaps it is due to an insufficiency of certain substances the body needs to create energy.

There is a long list of possible causes.

I think the better questions to ask first are:

  • Why is my body sending me this strong signal?
  • What is causing my body to react as it is reacting now?

There are indeed a long list of possible answers to these questions. How do you find the answers to these questions?

A variety of assessments are available to you that can provide rich information about any and all imbalances in your body. These include (among others) bioenergetic testing, saliva tests, voice analysis, hair analysis to ascertain the presence of toxins and a wide variety of standard medical tests.

Health care practitioners have creative ways to ascertain the root cause using muscle testing.

In summary, I would say in response to your question that yes – it is certainly possible to mask a tremor with a wide variety of approaches including prescription medications, natural herbs and exercise. With most such treatments (other than exercise) more and more dosage is needed over time to get the same effect. You ultimately wind up creating more problems for yourself as the imbalances become more pronounced.

Why not ask a different set of questions here?

What is the underlying cause here?

What is my body telling me in the moment?

Once you figure out the answer to these questions you can find a treatment or therapy that will address the cause. With this approach masking the tremor becomes irrelevant.

I have developed an online course called tame tremors which presents classes on dozens of natural treatments. Once you identify the likely cause, you have a rich source option to choose from.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

 

Stiffness Remedy

I just got off the phone w a man in his early 50s. He called to ask me if I ever came across someone who went the holistic route and also found that medication made things worse. And if so, if there is a holistic stiffness remedy that might help. 

He feels his symptoms (namely stiffness) gets worse by the day. He believes the medication makes it worse. Yet, he says he can only manage 8-9 hours  without medication.
He called to ask me if I ever came across someone who went the holistic route and also found that medication made things worse. And if so, if there is a holistic stiffness remedy that might help. 

I don’t have this experience so I thought I would ask you.
Thanks for your questions about the possible side effects of medications and a stiffness remedy.  As for whether his challenges are due at least in part to medications he takes the answer would be maybe. You do not report the actual medication ins the question. If you did here is what I would do:
I would do a quick search on the internet with the name of his medications and the words “side effects”.  Check to see if stiffness is listed.
If the answer is yes. this is a discussion he can have with his doctor. If the answer is no what is the deal here?

I suggest he talk with his doctor about a magnesium supplement to address his stiffness remedy. That might well be a simple solution to a troubling problem. Posted below is an interview with Carol Dean, an international expert on magnesium. Most people are have a significant  deficiency.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Methods to Reduce Stress

I would like to tell you that I believe you have a valid thought in suggesting that STRESS may be a reason for contracting the disease. I need to learn all about methods to reduce stress.

While I have wondered for the past 4 months whether the tremors I experienced might be the early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, seeing my family doctor today and having her refer me to a neurologist has finally given me the courage to read up on this horrible disease. Among other web pages, I found yours.

Almost a year ago I signed up for internet marketing coaching. I set up a LLC and paid close to $15,000.00. It did not take long for me to realize that I had been badly scammed  Still, having spent the money I wanted to give this my very best effort. This, on top of fighting with my recruiters and coaching company plus trying to stop these people from scamming other innocents and basically getting nowhere has brought on my symptoms.

I am a 71 year old female. The reason I dared take on the online marketing was that I have always been super healthy.

Not anymore.

Lis

Stress is directly connected to the symptoms of Parkinson’s. When relaxed and care free, symptoms are minimal or nonexistent.

There are a variety of methods to reduce stress that I have found useful. The best way to approach the goal is on a moment to moment basis.

1. Exercise. Many people tell me that when they feel anxious or are worried, exercise does the trick beautifully.

2. Meditate. Be quite and still for a minute. Focus on your breath. I am not talking here about a big deal. One minute will do during the moment when you need it. I have just finished a series of interviews with people who are experts on meditation for a book with Nancy Welch, Medicine Meditation.

There are many different approaches to meditation. The trick is to find an approach that works for you. Regardless of the method you are drawn to, the idea behind meditation is to still the mind babble which aggravates and inflames the stress.

3. Laugh. This is a simple suggestion, but it works.Laughing out loud gives an immediate dopamine rush. That is pretty cool if you ask me.

The irony is that you do not even have to think a joke is funny. Laugh out loud and you will get an immediate dopamine rush. The only side effect to laughter is improved health on some level.

4. Try holysnc (which is available from a variety of sources). Listen to the guided meditation by visiting the Monroe Institute website.

This method was created 100 years ago by Robert Monroe. It consists of sounds that have slightly different frequencies which are sent to the two sides of the brain through headphones.

I personally used this technology for about two years. I listened to tapes for about 30 minutes a day. Very gradually, the little things that stressed me out no longer had any impact whatsoever. I would listen for about a minute and instantly be asleep.

5. Get body work. Cranial sacral body work or energy work can be extremely helpful. There are physical blockages which twist and contort the body’s tissues that are released and removed through gentle body work. Everyone has blockages to one degree or another. Everyone in a body (and that includes all of us) should consider getting body work of one form or another.

I have used many different forms of body work for myself – energy healing, cranial sacral therapy, reiki, healing touch. zen massage, Bowen therapy. I recommend you try some of these wonderful techniques out and see which one your body likes the best.

6. My concluding suggestion is to acknowledge that many stresses are external to us. We are impacted by our parents or children or spouses or partners or money or jobs or the world condition or the economy – you name it. When I feel the external world invading my internal space, I have a mantra which helps me.

I honor the fate of [my child, my parents, etc.] What do I need now?”

The mantra instantly connects me to myself rather than responding to other external issues. Worrying about other people’s issues is a cleaver way for me to avoid a connection with myself. When I ask myself the question,

“Why I am here on the earth?

Much of the stress I carry is instantly released.

Combine these methods to reduce stress and  get an even bigger result.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

© Parkinsons Recovery

Psychic Readings

Lenore is a psychic from New York City who has a huge reputation for always getting it right with her psychic readings. Since I am always on the lookout for new ways to receive guidance on the next steps I need to take in my own life, I decided to ask Lenore for a psychic reading on myself. This way, you can get an idea of what psychic readings are all about and whether this might be an option you might want to pursue.

Lenore’s reading explored what choices I need to be making in my life regarding my own health and my work with Parkinsons Recovery. If you are curious about whether a psychic readings can provide healing for the symptoms of Parkinsons, listen to how she goes about doing a reading for me.

Note: This was recorded a number of years ago. I found it interesting to listen again today. Psychic readings have been helpful to me in the past. I thought this is an option you might want to seriously consider for yourself.

I really enjoyed your reading with Lenore. In listening to the dialogue between you two (during your “healing”), I could sense a warm flow of glowing healing energy, going back and forth between you, through you. Yes, I am serious.  Conversation was kindled by kindness and respect and a sense of fun. I guess one might call it good karma.

I particularly liked some comments that I think Lenore made about ownership of change. She alluded to the fact, that while she is able to counsel or direct a person in certain areas of life and make suggestions of change, that it really is the individuals  call. The individual has to want to make that change. Ideas about the universe being open and ready for us were interesting. And, that sometimes when we stew over a decision that it is often right there in front of us, we just need to recognize it.

It would seem then, that it is ok if we make a change that does not “pan out,” just to feel free to keep slugging away, keep trying. After a bit of trial and error we are bound to get something right? Ha.

Anyway thanks to Lenore and yourself Robert, the broadcast did help me so much. I too, have grown to know, that with Parkinsons Disease symptoms being so different from one individual to another, that we need to look at our own case scenario and go from there, looking at the changes that we can make for ourselves that will improve our condition.

Keep up your wonderful work! ( But take some time for you too. Psychic Lenore’s orders.)

Linda

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

 

 

Painting for Parkinsons

My guest on the radio show this week was Anne Atkin who has made remarkable discoveries for herself about what helps her get sustained relief from her symptoms. She sponsored a novel Painting for Parkinsons program. Her interview is remarkable in every respect and I strongly encourage everyone to listen.

Anne was kind enough to send me a copy of her book, Living and Laughing with Parkinsons which I have now devoured. I did not stop reading and laughing until I landed on the final page.

Her book is a thorough and comprehensive review of the symptoms that are associated with Parkinsons and the frustrations that they present. Anne has drawn provocative and very funny cartoons that complement each explanation of a symptom and that embody the many challenges she personally encountered.

In addition to sending me her book, Anne forwarded a letter she wrote in response to a question about what she has been doing to get relief from her symptoms, Anne gave me permission to post the letter which follow. May this not however be a substitute for listening to her interview which is full  of golden treasures for anyone who currently experiences the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.

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

I am very careful about how I describe what is happening to me. Recovery is a word that is too strong; I like to think that I have reached an equilibrium and a state of balance with Parkinson’s. I feel that I am always improving some aspect of myself. If you think you have recovered, then you may allow bad habits to come back whereas to keep in balance you have to keep working at it. It all becomes second nature.

Yes, it is true that I no longer use a cane and that has happened because my quad muscles are much stronger and that helps balance. Also, my overall balance has improved because I spend time just practising standing on one leg then the other.

I don’t do hours of exercise because I would be bored silly. I exercise no more than 10 minutes at a time but at frequent intervals. This way I don’t get tired or bored. I do all my own housework, which is also exercise! I love gardening and I will talk about gardening more.

I don’t do anything that is complicated or difficult. Nor do you have to do everything exactly the way I do it. After a while you will find your own pathway and it will feel right and comfortable. I treasure painting for Parkinsons but you may not be a painter. 

So I use a combination of:

Creativity as evidenced in my Painting for Parkinsons program in Australia.

Socialization- being with people from all walks of life is the way to go. Don’t isolate yourself.


Humor – develop a sense of humor as laughter is so good for our bodies


Exercise – and you don’t have to join a gym. There is a great book on exercise for us and it is called ‘Delay the Disease.’ It is by Jackie Russell and David Zid.


Mindfulness


Wellness These three are handled beautifully on the Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation website


Visualization

Positive thinking: Not giving in to negative thoughts

In everything I do I have a little catch-cry –

‘You’ll never, never know if you don’t have a go.’

You can retrain your brain through thinking positively. It is very important if you have depression.

Whoops! I forgot about gardening. Gardening is an activity that is both creative and exercise. You get the best of both worlds. I love gardening and spend at least an hour a day in mine.

My book ‘Living and laughing with Parkinson’s’ is just at the very beginning of my journey and it is my second book which is being published later this year which will do a lot of talking about the dot points above.

I hope I have given you some ideas but I must impress on you that you can find you own path to wellness and mindfulness. There is more than one pathway because Parkinson’s is such a mixture of symptoms. We are all different and therefore our pathways are going to be all different too.

I also started this journey about 4 years ago and the further along the pathway I went, the more easily I found it to take control of some symptoms. For example, anxiety attacks are now no problem because when I feel one starting, I just visualize myself drawing, or sniffing my roses or I see myself bathed in sunlight with, sitting on a hill and watching the clouds.

Anne

Painting for Parkinsons Postscript:

I do believe that the complexity of Parkinson’s means that there is a complexity of different ways you can tackle the condition. I concentrated on the motor skills because I like being physically independent. Plus, retraining the brain is vitally important. I hope people see that if a late middle-aged mum from Australia can help herself then it is something within the reach of most.

But the key word is Persistence.

Cheers

Anne Atkin

How do you Determine Which Treatments Are Appropriate for you?

How Do You Determine Which Treatments Are Appropriate
for you?

You will always get an accurate reading by asking your body
this question. Your body knows the answer. We just have to
remember to ask. How do we ask our own body a question
and, more curiously, how do we figure out the answer?

Muscle testing is a great way to find out what our body
needs.

Some muscle testing methods work beautifully
for one person but not another. To be sure there are
many muscle testing methods that can be used. Some
require the help of another person. There are also methods
that you can do yourself.

I describe in detail the four muscle testing methods I use every
day in a 42 page Muscle Testing Booklet. You claim a download
of the booklet here:

Four Muscle Testing Methods

Or, do a youtube search on the internet to watch videos that
illustrate various muscle testing methods. There are many
different ones.

We encourage people to experiment, to find out what
works for them. If these techniques feel too mechanical to you,
you can always trust your intuition and instincts about any choice.
Your gut instincts will always be right.

In summary, the answer to your question: How do you Determine
Which Treatments Are Appropriate for you – is simple. Ask your body.
Your body always knows what is best and will never lie to you.
Your body knows what it needs. We just have to
remember to ask it and listen to the answer.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery 

©  Parkinsons Recovery

Neuro-Optometry

Dr. Janet Kohtz is a specialist in neuro-optometry. A member of the Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association, she prescribes prisms and glasses to assist a persons with Parkinsons who are having mobility challenges.

What do glasses, prisoms and color have to do with Parkinsons Disease? Dr. Kohtz, a Neuro Optometrist, explains how glasses and neuro-rehabilitation therapy can positively impact persons who currently experience the symptoms of Parkinsons Disease. Her patients have been able to adjust their posture, balance and gait to free themselves from walkers. Her website: www.optometrists.org/Riverside

Dr. Kohtz what symptoms can be relieved with neuro-optometry treatments.

One of the problems has to do with locomotion. The Parkinsons patient can get stuck in space. He wants to walk over to the kitchen table, but has to sometimes be given a gentle push to start the movement. One of the most important aspects of peripheral vision is goal-directed locomotion. Remember, the vestibular system is in charge of gaze stabilization in space.

But, possibly the most important aspect of our vision is not 20/20 central vision, but the sub-conscious peripheral vision. This is what makes a great football player who is able to wind his way down a football field avoiding other players. And this sub-conscious peripheral vision is what STARTS our movement forward.

Glasses, prisms, color, and vision rehabilitation therapy can help.  Parkinsons is a problem of the brain, and the eyes work through the brain also. They are not just sitting there on the edge of the head, operating all by themselves. As a matter of fact, the eyes hook up with all the other systems of the body in the brain.

Dr. Janet Kohtz

Dr. Kohtz which opens up a new treatment alternative that is natural, safe and effective. Listen to my interview with Dr. Kohtz below. She provides an exciting option that facilitates recovery from movement disorders.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery
Pioneers of Recovery

 

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