Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)

Naturopath Doctor John Coleman, Author of Stop Parkin’ and Start Livin’, answers a question about the value of using Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) to address the trauma associated with the neurological symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.

Do you experience panic attacks and high anxiety that frustrate your ability to find sustained relief from your symptoms? There are simple approaches like EFT that can help tremendously.

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), also known as tapping, is a form of psychological acupressure that involves tapping on specific points on the body while focusing on a particular emotional issue or problem. The technique is rooted in the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, particularly the concept of energy meridians, which are believed to be channels through which the body’s energy flows. EFT combines elements of cognitive therapy, exposure therapy, and acupressure.

How it works: EFT involves using your fingertips to tap on a series of acupressure points, primarily on the face, head, and upper body, while simultaneously stating phrases that address the emotional issue at hand. The tapping is thought to help balance the body’s energy system and alleviate emotional stress. The process typically follows these steps:

  1. Identify the issue: Focus on a specific emotional or psychological issue, such as anxiety, fear, pain, or trauma.
  2. Rate the intensity: Assess the intensity of the emotional charge on a scale of 0 to 10 (with 10 being the most intense).
  3. Set up statement: While tapping on a point (usually the karate chop point on the side of the hand), say an affirmation like “Even though I feel [emotion], I deeply and completely accept myself.”
  4. Tapping sequence: Tap on a series of acupressure points while mentally focusing on the issue, repeating short phrases that express the emotion or problem.
  5. Reassess: After completing the tapping sequence, assess the intensity again. Ideally, the emotional charge should decrease.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Miracle Recovery from Parkinsons

My husband, has experienced a miracle recovery from
Parkinsons. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease

seven years ago, and who was drug free for the first five
of those years, has improved dramatically over the past
two months as follows:

major, noticeable and sustained increase in energy
  (sexual, emotional, physical, mental, etc.):
handwriting is easier;
balance improved;
less need for sleep and recovery/rest;
abatement of muscle soreness;
urge to return to direct, upright posture and then, arms swing naturally;
return of facial expression
moving faster and smoother;
the list goes on.

He presently takes 5 25/100 Sinemet per day, which he
has been taking for almost two years. He also is on a wide
range of supplements, which he has been on from the beginning
and finally, I have been giving him weekly energy treatments
which are loosely based on yin tui na but which amount to
an intuitive, hands on kind of relaxation session.

We are simply unable to explain his seeming recovery
and are happy to live with it as a miracle. However, we
wanted to advise you of the remarkable turn-around
he is undergoing and seek any input you may have.

Your story of recovery is an inspiration to everyone with
Parkinson’s who are on the road to recovery. Thank you
so much for sending it. I hope others with stories similar
to yours will be encouraged to send their own personalÂ
experiences with recovery.

Your husband’s recovery program has consisted of a two pronged
approach: nutrition and energy work. He gives his body the
nourishment it needs to rejuvenate damaged neural pathways and
balance out the intricate array or hormones in his body.

Why did it take so long for the supplements to take effect?
It is often the case that the digestive system is compromised
in the early stages of recovery. The food needed by the
body to repair cells is not being adequately assimilated or
processed. It takes time for blockages and barriers in the
digestive system to clear.

Some of the best evidence of recovery comes from John
Coleman, ND. It took him nearly four years to recover from
the symptoms of Parkinson’s. As a naturopath John has helped
other clients fully recover, but their recovery too has taken
2-4 years. It simply takes time for the digestive system and
the body time to come “back on line.”

You have also been giving him subtle energy treatments.
I believe this is also a significant reason for his miracle recovery
from Parkinsons.

My colleagues and I did a six month study to evaluate the
effects of energy healing on the symptoms of 10 persons
who have Parkinson’s in Portland, Oregon. We tracked
their symptoms using standard research instruments
and videos.

Findings showed that 75% of the symptoms either improved
or stayed the same. Videos of before the treatments and after
also showed remarkable improvements.

Energy work helps to release stress and trauma which we
believe is a factor that causes the symptoms of Parkinson’s.
Energy work also helps the body balance out the complicated
mix of hormones that are continuously circulating throughout
the body.

Your experience with the recovery of your husband matches
our own experience perfectly. The weekly energy sessions and
the nutritional supplements are both clearly two important reasons for
the miracle of his recovery.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery  

© Parkinsons Recovery

Hydrotherapy

The following is a home hydrotherapy treatment that has been used by Karen (who has the symptoms of Parkinson’s. Karen describes this procedure during my radio program interview with her. She did this treatment three times a week and saw remarkable results.

For more information about Transformational Tools Karen mentioned had been helpful to her recovery visit: https://transformationaltools.com/

What is Hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy is a special technique that greatly enhances recovery from many of acute and chronic health problems. These simple treatments improve the circulation of blood and lymph, promote better digestion, and increase the elimination of toxins.  Hydrotherapy works so well because it acts to stimulate the bodys own healing force.

Directions for treatment that is done to you:

Part One:

Soak two terry cloth towels in hot water that is tolerable to the touch. Soak one terry cloth towel in cold water. Wring out hot towels. (Note: as an alternative, you can make the hot towels by wringing out two towels in tap water and putting them in the microwave. Be careful not to burn yourself, as microwaved towels can be very hot) Lying on your back, cover the bared chest and abdomen with the two hot towels. Cover entire body tightly in blankets. Leave the hot towels in place for 5 minutes.

Part Two:

Wring out cold towel. Replace the hot towels with a single cold towel. Cover entire body tightly in blanket. Leave the cold towel in place for 10 minutes.

Part Three:

Repeat the same procedures of Part One and Part Two, but do the treatment face down with the towels being applied on your back. The entire treatment should take about one-half hour.

Epsom Salt Baths

Karen describes Epsom Salt Baths that she uses along with the hydrotherapy.

For a standard-sized bathtub, add 1–2 cups of Epsom salt. Karen uses double this amount. Check the package for the recommended amount. 

Water temperature
The water should be warm but not hot, around 101.5–102°F (38.6–38.8°C). 

 

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

 

Suggestions for Insomnia

My husband has PD and he cannot sleep at night. Any suggestions for insomnia?

Sherr

I would like to respond to your question using my own experience as a guide. I have attended a multitude of seminars where health care professionals offer step by step instructions that are supposed to help you sleep. You have probably heard the same recommendations:

  • Go to sleep at the same time every night
  • Don’t watch TV before you go to sleep
  • Don’t eat or drink anything before bedtime
  • And so one and so forth …

Speaking for myself, I can not do these things before I sleep. These routines are too rigid for me. I cannot live my life that way. My life is too unstructured.

Instead I have adopted five simple strategies that do help me sleep well every night.

Ear Plugs. It may sound silly, but many people are very sensitive to sounds. Spend a few dollars, even at a dollar store. Buy some wax type ear plugs (like swimmers use). Put them in your ears before you sleep.

White Noise. We turn on an air cleaner at night when we sleep. It is a soothing way to screen out extraneous noise that can put your hormonal system on alert. Noises that come from unknown places in the dark create fear in the body which is bound to keep you awake.

Darken the bedroom. When we started closing the blinds in the bedroom at night, we discovered it is much easier to sleep. For years we looked out the windows at our beautiful view of the Puget Sound, but at the cost of sleeping at night. Darkening the room promotes sound sleep.

Holosync. This is my personal favorite strategy for sleep, though it is the one recommendation that costs a little money. If I am ever unable to sleep, I pop on my holosync ear phones. I am out in two minutes.

Turn Off the Hamster Wheel. A frequent reason for being unable to sleep is the hamster wheel of thoughts that are not in our best and highest good. Make it a practice every night when going to sleep to place these thoughts aside for the evening. Tell your subconscious mind not to worry – that you will re-visit those thoughts in the morning. You literally have to stop the hamster wheel from churning around and around. Do it with clear intention and get that deep sleep that is so essential for recovery.

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

© Parkinsons Recovery.

Sugar and Parkinsons

On Saturday night my 30 year old daughter
told me she was afraid she would develop
Parkinson’s Disease at some point in her
life. This put me into a silent fear that
continues to haunt me. I wonder about the
connection between sugar and Parkinsons. 

For me I know I resisted anything and everything
that entered my life that I didn’t like.
Everything from a challenging mother in law
to being told I wasn’t qualified for certain
work related positions.

I used caffeine and sugar at times exclusively
over nutritious food to numb that and any other
self depreciating thought/ pain. I personally
feel this was a huge step into a diseased state.

Is there a history of people who have been diagnosed
with Parkinson’s Disease of body abuse in some way?
I would really appreciate any insight you may have.

Your question asks about the history of
people who have abused their body with poor
nutrition. More specifically, the relationship between
sugar and Parkinsons symptoms.

There are thousands and thousands of studies that
evaluate the effectiveness of one drug or another
on the symptoms of Parkinson’s. Sugar is not
on that list because sugar is not considered a
drug. The idea behind these studies is to identify
a drug that will provide some relief to symptoms.

Sugar is undoubtedly one of the most toxic substance
that exists in the world today. I know of no medical
researcher who believes sugar can provide long term
relief for symptoms. It is clearly toxic to the body and
deadly in its impact on the function of neural networks.
Neurons are the most sensitive cells of the body.

If anyone really wants to begin feeling better, one of
the best things they can do for themselves is to stop
eating unrefined sugar. If you want to have verification
that sugar is toxic and harmful, do an experiment on
yourself.

Indulge Yourself

Eat all the sweet desserts you want for a day. This
is your “treatment.” Sugar stimulates the release of
dopamine, so it mainlines dopamine into blood stream.

Then, see how you feel that evening and the
following day. I have done that experiment many times
myself and I always get the same result. I feel lousy,
depressed and angry at myself for damaging my body.

I do not think you will ever see published studies that
show sugar is harmful. To prove sugar aggravates
your symptoms, just do a study on yourself.

Why do we (myself included) sabotage ourselves? There
are sugar substitutes! There are great alternatives
to raw, unrefined sugar. There are ways to satisfy
our addictions that do not destroy the neural networks
in our body. So, why do we do it over and over?

It is an addiction. It numbs the bad feelings we
are always trying to avoid. Sugar is a great infusion
of warm, cozy feelings for a few minutes because
it triggers the temporary release of dopamine. When
ingested on a regular basis, sugar undermines
the body’s natural capacity to manufacture dopamine.

What is the connection between sugar and Parkinsons?
It ranks at the top of the list of the most harmful toxins
that jolt the body of the balance and harmony.

This is what happens with alcohol and illegal
drugs. They very quickly sabotage the body’s
natural ability to manufacture dopamine and
the other “feel good” hormones. The body then
relies on the alcohol and drugs for a dopamine
infusion which is the physical explanation
for the addiction.

Sugar works in the same fashion. Think of it as
analogous to the effects of heroin. The only
difference is sugar is a legal drug.

Of course the aftermath of ingesting sugar is deadly.
Think of the challenge of sugar cravings as an addiction
which can be acknowledged and treated.

In your introductory paragraph, you mention concerns
about your daughter’s potential to develop the symptoms
of Parkinson’s are putting “me into a silent fear
that continues to haunt me.”

These feelings are associated
with all of the stress hormones that sustain an imbalance
in the body and feed the symptoms of Parkinson’s. When
we are suspended in a continual state of fear, our bodies
are trapped in a continual place of hormonal imbalance.
The good news is that there are a variety of therapies
that help to release the fears that we hold for our
children and loved ones.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

© Parkinsons Recovery

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

How TMS Works:

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) uses magnetic fields to induce electrical currents in specific regions of the brain. A coil placed on the scalp generates a magnetic pulse, which can influence neuronal activity. Depending on the frequency and pattern of stimulation, TMS can either excite or inhibit brain regions, offering therapeutic effects.

TMS for Tremors:

TMS may help in treating tremors by targeting brain areas associated with motor control, like the primary motor cortex or basal ganglia. The idea is to either inhibit overactive neural circuits or enhance underactive circuits that contribute to tremor activity.

For example:

  • Parkinson’s disease tremor may be related to disrupted communication between the basal ganglia and the cortex. TMS could modulate this communication to reduce tremor.
  • Essential tremor is thought to involve abnormal brain activity in the cerebellum, and TMS might help adjust the neural firing patterns contributing to the tremors.

Below is the abstract from a 2024 review study that reported spectacular results when using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Parkinson’s symptoms and tremors specifically.

Hellyon. 2024 Jun 12;10(12):e32799. Differential symptom cluster responses and predictors to repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation treatment in Parkinson’s disease: A retrospective study

Abstract

Background: Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is an effective noninvasive neuromodulation technique for Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, the efficacy of rTMS varies widely between individuals. This study aimed to investigate the factors related to the response to rTMS in PD patients.

Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the response of 70 idiopathic PD patients who underwent rTMS for 14 consecutive days targeting the supplementary motor area (SMA) in either an open-label trail (n = 31) or a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (RCT) (n = 39). The motor symptoms of PD patients were assessed by the United Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale Part III (UPDRSIII). Based on previous studies, the UPDRSIII were divided into six symptom clusters: axial dysfunction, resting tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia affecting right and left extremities, and postural tremor. Subsequently, the efficacy of rTMS to different motor symptom clusters and clinical predictors were analyzed in these two trails.

Results: After 14 days of treatment, only the total UPDRSIII scores and rigidity scores improved in both the open-label trial and the RCT. The results of multiple linear regression analysis indicated that baseline rigidity scores (? = 0.37, p = 0.047) and RMT (? = 0.30, P = 0.02) positively predicted the improvement of UPDRSIII. The baseline rigidity score (? = 0.55, P < 0.0001) was identified as an independent factor to predict the improvement of rigidity.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated significant improvements in total UPDRSIII scores and rigidity after 14-day Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatment, with baseline rigidity scores and RMT identified as predictors of treatment response, underscoring the need for individualized therapy.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Trauma Inflames Parkinsons

Below are included two emails I received from persons addressing how traumas inflame Parkinsons. Trauma gets embedded at the cellular level like super glue and inflames Parkinsons symptoms day in and day out.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder Parkinsons Recovery

I just want you to know that I had previously started to recover from Parkinson’s because of the work I have been doing about letting go of the stress and trauma in my body by using Louise L Hay method. I’m following her book You Can Heal Your Body.

I have noticed quite a significant reduction in my symptoms already. They’re not completely gone but they are reducing and I am definitely on the road to recovery. I am sure your program will help even more. I just know that I will be symptom-free! I have no doubt about it.

So thank you for your jump start to Recovery program.

My vision that I hold in my thoughts are having you interview me on your radio show and I am sharing on how I recovered from Parkinsons after acknowledging that trauma inflames Parkinsons. And the other vision I have is me telling my neurologist I no longer have Parkinson’s and him giving me a score of 0 on the Parkinson’s scale.

Regards,

Gail

Below is correspondence I received from Marsha who emphasizes how trauma inflames Parkinsons.

You see, I have experienced trauma and abuse in my childhood…even pre-verbal.

Have PTSD. I have had challenges, mostly emotional, Though I’ve had a wonderful career as a songwriter, these last years, my stress, anxiety, and terror have made me drop to my knees and surrender to the Universal forces that are smarter than me and my ego. Now this past year these symptoms just validated this perfect storm of so many reasons why this has come to be…and you are one of the few who is actually addressing all this. By the way, I’m a young 67.

Marsha

Multi-Faceted Causes of Parkinsons

Many people wonder what causes the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. What follows is a letter to Howard Shifke from Tom who gave me permission to post it today. Tom’s letter is a true testimonial to the multi-faceted causes of Parkinsons.

There is a second theme in Tom’s letter. The recovery process often involves a period of time when symptoms get worse. Many people believe that when a therapy is pursued, the immediate result should be an improvement in symptoms. If the therapy (whatever it might be) is effective, it is often the case that symptoms will initially get worse before they improve. If the therapy is abandoned prematurely, you are not giving it an opportunity to have the positive effect you had intended.

If you are trying out new therapeutic options which have led to a worsening of conditions, consider having a party to celebrate this (unwanted) outcome. Of course, a therapeutic option may be harming your body and should be abandoned. But if the therapy has no side effects, consider the possibility it is doing precisely what you had hoped for.

A flare up of symptoms may simply mean your body is being cleansed from toxins. Give your body a little time to do this work since toxins can be nasty substances to eliminate from the delicate tissues of the body.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Pioneers of Recovery

What follows is Tom’s letter to Howard Shifke on the multi-faceted causes of Parkinsons.

Since we talked last month I reduced my use of supplements my physical and mental functions have been reduced quite a lot. Not only my PD symptoms increased but a new complication surfaced, daily unexplained vertigo.

This and other factors led to me missing my daily Qigong exercises more and more frequently. I have continued to spiral downward until at now the bottom I have recommitted to a new paradigm:

“A stronger dedicated commitment to recover”

As this was happening several issues pointed me to the premise that my PD is also affected by my diet/nutrition. So I have had some specific tests run. The results were amazing:

    1. The first test was an Alcat food sensitivity panel which showed I was mildly to moderately sensitive to 54 food, spices or additives.
    2. Next I had a 5MTHF panel which showed I am missing two genes (rare to have both sets missing, 1 from father, 1 from mother) which help in the metabolizing of folic acid, a precursor to glutathione production
    3. Next I had Heidelberg test performed.
    4. This measures the HCl content, as well as, the rate of return to an acid state in the stomach when a food is introduced. In my case my stomach does not produce HCL in a manner that allows for the breakdown of trace elements. So I’m digesting only small percentage of my food’s nutrients
    5. Next I was tested on how many elements ( calcium, magnesium, potassium, chromium, etc. ) I was missing. Three critically low elements is considered very serious. I am critically low in 10. I’m currently on an IV replacement routine.
    6. Next I was tested and found I also have ‘Leaky gut syndrome’ This means nutrients are lost and/or not absorbed by my intestines. Also toxins can be let into my bloodstream. Not only am I not absorbing my less than normal trace elements, but my intestines are allowing toxins to be introduced back into my body.

My naturopath feels that once these issues are addressed/repaired I may make substantial improvement with my PD symptoms. It’s my belief that as well.

It’s my plan to introduce repair/relief from gut issues, eat as healthy as possible, reintroduce consistent Qigong (with your help), biking and walking exercises, continue to build a support network and continue to document my recovery.

As you can see I have a way to go but I think I’m on the right path for me. There are indeed multi-faceted causes of Parkinsons.

THANK YOU for your support

Tom

Making Decisions About Parkinsons

All of us confront the challenge of making decisions moment by moment. How do you go about making decisions about Parkinsons treatments and therapies?

Do you make an appointment with the neurologist this week? Do you visit Parkinsons Recovery to get information? Do you take a vacation from our symptoms and have a piece of chocolate cake?

There is no way around it. Life is all about decision making moment to moment.

How do you go about making decisions about Parkinsons?  How do you go about deciding which therapies or treatments to pursue? There are so many choices. So little time. Money is also a challenge for most.

Here is an awesome suggestion which was offered by Hans who is from Holland. Hans told us he uses the following strategy to make big decisions. The example he shared with us involved making a decision about whether he needed to start taking prescription medications for Parkinson’s.

Here is Hans suggestion for how to go about making decisions about Parkinsons.

Day One:

Take the position

“Yes, I need to take medications now.”

Everyone you talk with this day including yourself,  offer all the reasons and arguments why it will be a great idea for you to start taking medications. No criticism is allowed. All discussion throughout the day with anyone you talk with is about the advantages of taking medications.

Day Two

Reverse the position. Devote the entire day talking about the negatives with your friends and loved ones and yourself (This is not your only work this day. It just focuses the discussions you have with your friends and family).  Everything that comes out of your mouth is about the negatives. Talk about all the reasons why it will be a stupid idea to start taking medications.

Day Three:

Talk only about the positives. Listen to yourself as you talk with others. Is your body excited? Are you excited? Are you losing energy? Are you gaining energy? How does it feel. Do you speak with confidence and enthusiasm? Listen to yourself.

Day Four :

Talk only about the negatives. Listen to yourself as you talk with others. Is your body excited? Are you excited? Are you losing energy? Are you gaining energy? How does it feel?Do you speak with confidence and enthusiasm? Listen to yourself.

You can do the routine for two more days, or it may be clear by now. You body may have given you a clear signal about which decision is best for you now.

I believe this is an eloquent way of helping yourself listen to the wisdom of your own body. Your body knows what is best. The idea is to listen to yourself babble on and on.  If your are confronting a tough decision, why not give Han’s decision making method a trial spin.  It works for him like a charm.

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

© Parkinsons Recovery

Parkinsons Freezing

I have had Parkinsons freezing for 18 or more years. My problem is locking up, can’t move.

Example: If I’m keying in on an object, trying to carry something, I will lock up and have to struggle to move. Once moving I’m better until I stop. Then, I struggle all over again. Is this a side effect of medication I take?  Jack

It is certainly the case that medications for Parkinsons have many side effects. You are wondering whether the side effects of the medications you are currently taking might be causing the freezing.

By way of investigating this issue, I recommend that you ask your pharmacist for the drug sheets on all medications that you currently take. Drug companies are actually quite good about reporting all the possible side effects. It is their legal obligation. If you see freezing listed as a side effect on the drug sheet disclosure, then you have the answer to the question you are asking here.

I would speculate that even if medication is contributing to the Parkinsons freezing that you are currently experiencing it is probably not the sole factor at play here.

Changing positions seems to always help people get unstuck. If you move from side to side after freezing it helps get you moving again.  If you focus on your destination, it also helps.

The reason for freezing is that the energy required for fluid movement gets totally blocked because of how you are standing and holding your body. Another way of saying this is that the center of balance gets shifted too far forward.

When you think about the challenge of freezing as a center of gravity issue it is much easier to address. You can do something about being stuck in the moment. If you believe freezing is caused by medications you take, then you may be less likely consider timely shifts in your balance that can help tremendously.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Parkinsons Recovery
www.Parkinsonsrecovery.com

Creativity is a Symptom of Parkinsons

Like the title? Creativity is a symptom
of Parkinsons. Most people think of
symptoms as unwanted. This one
is a welcome symptom for many.

If you happen to have the symptoms
of Parkinson’s today, there is a near
perfect chance that you have already
been very successful with whatever you
chose to do with your life. I validate
this truth over and over, week after
week in my conversations with people
who have Parkinson’s.

I have a very strong suspicion
that when the symptoms of Parkinson’s
creep into your daily life, many people
become significantly more creative.
They begin doing things they have never
done before in new and innovative ways.
Their creativity skyrockets (and it was
already off the scales to begin with).

Something happens – perhaps to the
soul of the brain – that is magical.
Here is what I heard today from a
man who has the symptoms of
Parkinsons.

“Although I have always been
creative when it comes to ideas,
I had never written poetry before
nor children’s books and after
I was diagnosed, I started doing
both. It also seemed very easy
for me to do so. When I sat down
and started writing, the words
flowed very quickly.”

For reasons unknown to me, I have
observed that people who experience
symptoms of Parkinsons disease
expand their horizons, make choices
they never imagined taking
and do things they had never
planned on doing. The world
is a better place because of it.

I want to document the truth of the
observation that the creativity of
people with Parkinson’s is enriched
and nourished.

Send me your story about how your
own creativity has soared after being
diagnosed with Parkinson’s. I will
collect these stories and post
them in this blog, in the newsletter
and in the book for all to read.

Lets document how creativity is a
symptom of Parkinsons. E mail me
your story (a sentence,paragraph or more):
robert@parkinsonsrecovery.com
Please indicate how you want me
to attribute your story. I can
make it anonymous or put your
first name only,

Call 1-877-526-4646 if you prefer
and leave a message. I will return
the call and record your story.

We all know it. Parkinson’s is a gift in disguise.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Parkinsons Recovery

© Parkinsons Recovery

Parkinson’s and Creativity

if there is a connection between
Parkinson’s and creativity? I have
experienced the same enhanced creativity

as others. After being diagnosed 10 years ago. I
was laid off from my job after 9/11. It was during
this time I began to use my father’s tools he left
me and started building things out of wood. I am
wondering 

So far I’ve built two blanket chests, one for
my daughter, another for my wife, a toy chest
for my niece, an outdoor barbecue table and
a kitchen center island. In addition, I completely
tore down our old deck and rebuilt it with
composite boards, added all new vinyl railings
and topped it off with deck lights.

These things never entered my mind before being
diagnosed. It seems my mind is always dreaming up
things to build. Why is that?

What a fascinating and very exciting report.
You are not the only person who has a curiosity
about a Parkinson’s and creativity connection.
Here is what I suspect might be happening.

I believe everyone has an inherent passion
to create whether it is a new idea, furniture,
art, comedy – the list is endless.

If I have been unable to create something
new for even a day, I begin to have an empty
feeling deep inside. It is a familiar feeling, a
sense of sorts that I am wasting my life.

When I can write as I am now, my juices
flow. My energy expands. My steam for
living bursts at the seams.

For many of us, there is too little opportunity for
creativity to have a place in our lives. Jobs,
family or other commitments have a way of
commanding our energy.

The body will find a way to insist on finding ways
and time to be creative. If we do not allocate the
time and space for our own creativity to surface,
our body will give us a reason to make it so.

What does our body do? It sends us a
clear signal to slow down, change our
habits and do things differently out
of necessity. If the choice were up to
us we would not change but our bodies
demand to be heard.

The symptoms of Parkinsons slow
down the time spent on effort that does not
feed our creative addiction, making it possible
for the creative juices to ferment.

This in no way implies that we were uncreative
previously, but the focus of the creative activity
shifts.Let me explain.

Innovation versus Creativity

Why exactly is there a connection between
Parkinson’s and creativity?

One form of creativity is to be innovative which
involves generating creative ideas and applying
them to a specific context. With innovation the
problem is clearly defined and the solution set is
clearly bounded.

This form of creativity takes a given problem
or challenge and solves it. For example, how
do I invent a car that runs on water? Or,
how do I motivate my secretary to come to
work on time? Or, how do I fix my clothes
washing machine that is so old the part I
need is out of stock?

When lives are busy and demanding, a
second form of creativity lies dormant just below
the surface of our consciousness. It waits
for a chance – any chance – to pop out and
claim its birth right to be heard.

This is the form of raw creativity where something
entirely new pops out of our brains for no
reason whatsoever. There is no pre-defined
problem to solve. There is no deadline to
meet.

Instead there resides a massive body
of creative urges and ideas deep inside
each of us that are patiently waiting
time to be acknowledged.

My answer to your question is yes. There is
a strong connection between Parkinson’s
and creativity

The Process of Creativity

What is the process that makes this
happen? Control does not work. If you try
to order the creative ideas to reveal
themselves they will drill a hole even
deeper into your sub conscious and
cuddle up for the long haul.

Using brute force to dislodge creative
thoughts does not work. You will have
just as much luck trying to break
through the walls of Fort Knox with a
jack hammer. Setting a schedule
for creative ideas to be revealed
does not work. Creativity does not
obey a time schedule.

Enough. How do thoughts that seemingly
have no origin or history find their way
out of our own consciousness? How will
we know them when we confront them?

They are revealed in their own time and
place as we quiet down the mind babble
that controls our lives. They pop out in the
most unexpected ways during the moments
of living when we are at peace with ourselves.

We become creative when we quiet the chatter
of our minds and allow the part of us we
have stuffed for too many years to emerge.
It is the ultimate calling to become whole again.

For many people this opportunity comes because
our bodies make us slow down the quick pace of
activity and force us to take in the mysteries
of the world. We appreciate our friends and
spouses in new ways. We see life differently.

Once the feverish activity of our minds
slows to a snail’s pace the creative juices
begin to percolate. At long last we recognize
a good idea when it pops out of our minds
because we can feel the surge of energy
that bubbles up from inside.

The same creative ideas may have peeked
around the corner to be noticed by us before,
but we were too busy to notice. The faucet
of adrenaline was wide open and all of the
associated hormones were being manufactured
by our body 24-7. No rest for the restless.

To summarize, a reason for the connection between
Parkinson’s and creativity is the condition slows
down the frantic pace of life. An opening is
created for the creative juices to flow and the
fresh ideas to be noticed. We begin to do
things we have always wanted to do in
our lives, but did not know it until now.
We stuffed the creative urges before because
there was no time. But now, with a little
more space for new things to happen,
we become whole again.

I am Like My Father

There is a second part of your story that I also
want to acknowledge. Whether your father is
still living or not, his presence and energy is
embodied in the tools you are using. They
were his tools. Now they are your tools.

As his son, you are connecting with him in the
most profound way. His hands guide your work
and keep you safe. After all, you are his son.
He gave you life. All of his wisdom lives through
you. You carry on the tradition of all the
fathers in the family.

As men we all need to feel the support of
our fathers. When we genuinely receive
and accept that support, we come into
our full creative power. We are able to
manifest our dreams.

When we take in the support of our father,
we are also receiving the support of all the
fathers who came before him – all our
grandfathers, great grandfathers, great
great grandfathers that go back in time
generation after generation.

I have personally noticed a profound
shift in my own energy and attitude
toward life after I fully took in the
support from my own father. I had
resisted his support for years, having
convinced myself I could do everything
on my own. I distanced myself from
him. It is much easier and more truthful
to acknowledge and honor the truth
that I am just like him.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Parkinsons Recovery

© Parkinsons Recovery

Excessive Sweating

I have been doing sort of OK with my Parkinson’s except that
excessive sweating is driving me crazy. I sweat five or six times
a day – then sweat all night and wake up every morning soaking
from head to toe. I’ve done some research but cannot find
anything but talk about surgery.

Do you know of any nutritional or herbal treatment. Even if it is
not a cure but offers some relief?

I would appreciate some suggestions.

Thank you Robert

ML

Thanks so much for sending in your question.
Here is my spin on sweating from working with
individuals with the symptoms of Parkinsons
who have this problem. Rest assured you are not
alone in being driven crazy by this symptom.

Here is what I see is happening with excessive sweating.
Your body is sending you a strong signal. What is
the message? I sense the message is that your lymph
system is clogged and not functioning at present.

Why is it clogged? You have an overabundance of toxins.
(Please do not be offended. First, my guess may be
wrong. Second, everyone has this problem who lives
in a toxic world today and that is everyone!).

When the body is attempting to do its work of eliminating toxins
(which is one of its jobs) and there are too many toxins
for the body to eliminate in a normal fashion (through kidneys, liver, etc)
the body will use whatever means available to release
the toxins. If the lymph system is clogged, the sweat glands are
a good alternative outlet. Looked at from this perspective,
sweating may be critical for the organs in your body to
continue functioning. In other words, it is actually a good thing
to sweat though it is making you miserable.

What do you do about excessive sweating?

First, you can evaluate everything
you put on your body, everything you eat and everything you
touch. It is possible you are contaminating yourself in a most
innocent way (like the shaving lotion you use or the laundry
soap you use or …). It may be the furniture you sit on has toxins.
Consider all possibilities and eliminate any and all sources
of toxins. Make it a project for the month. The source of the problem
may lie in a most strange place, one that you never thought about
before.

Second, you can purchase a small trampoline and jump on it
for 4 or 5 minutes a day (unless balance is an issue for you).
Jumping on a trampoline every day helps to clear out the toxins
and clear your lymph system.

Third, you can contact a naturopath or MD type doctor who knows
how to help you detox gently (or go to your health food store and
discuss detox options with them). There are many other natural
options that can help you detox (infrared saunas, sweat lodges,
steam rooms, homeopathic treatments, etc.)

I frequently interview naturopaths on Parkinsons Recovery Radio who have great ideas
for detoxing. I recently interviewed Dr. Ivy Faber, ND, who does a test
that will tell you what toxins are problematic for you (or if the guess
is wrong about toxins, what might be the true source of your sweating
problem).

You also probably need to be especially careful to hydrate your body.
You may have the thought that you do not want to drink water because
it will make the sweating worse. Without adequate hydration, you
cannot detox your body and your lymph system will remain clogged.
There is a homeopathic treatment that is specifically designed to help
you hydrate your body. There is a marvelous therapy that
was designed to hydrate the body called the Aquas which is recommended
by Naturopath john Coleman,

Now – as you search around for herbal treatments, I recommend that
you consider the herbs that will help clear out your lymph system and
help you detox your body. I interviewed an amazing herbalist in
Pioneers of Recovery (http://pioneersofrecovery.com) Andrew Bentley.
He is the kind of person I would approach to get the best advice on
herbs to try.

The bottom line is I would direct your focus in consultations with
your doctors to detoxing your body of harmful substances. Once
the toxins are cleared to a manageable state, your lymph system
will begin to function normally and the symptom of sweating should
subside.

All the best,

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

Nausea and Dizziness

Heat seems to bother me. The sun shining on my back/neck
or a hair dryer creates a feeling of crawling or shrinking on my
neck and head and gives me a slight sensation of nausea and
dizziness. Have you heard of this being a problem with Parkinsons or
others with neurological problems?

My mouth, throat, and lungs feel dry, dehydrated, and have a
burning sensation and when I breathe deep I have a dry cough.
Is this a problem related to Parkinsons or do I have a problem
on top of a problem? I am in the Californian desert for the winter
and the problem seems to be exacerbated.

Nausea and Dizziness

I have not heard reports from people with Parkinson’s that are
specific to the nausea and dizziness symptoms you describe. The
range of symptoms that are associated with Parkinson’s is very
wide indeed. Recent research has focused on digestive issues as a
primary cause of symptoms. You may need to devote some tender
loving care to heal imbalances in your digestive system with close
attention to your food intake.

Sunshine is a key mechanism that helps the body manufacture
Vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 provides foundational support for balancing
all other hormones in the body.

I might suggest that with this symptom, your body is giving you a
big clue about the source of hormonal imbalances in your body. You
might put on your detective hat and launch a search for the
underlying cause of the symptom.

Excessive salivation is the more common symptom that is
associated with Parkinsons. By your own description, it sounds
to me like you are seriously dehydrated. It would be worthwhile to
hear an interview I did with Dr. Jaroslav Boublik who specializes
in issues associated with dehydration. He is a researcher who is
one of the developers of the Aquas designed to hydrate the body.
Dr. Boublik explains what happens when the body becomes
dehydrated. You can listen to his interview here.

He explains that as we get older, our thirst reflect becomes
compromised, so we simply do not drink when our body needs
water as was the case when we were young.

Of the two nettlesome symptoms you list, I would make the
dry cough the highest priority. By far, the most common cause of
death for persons with Parkinson’s is pneumonia, so addressing
any issues with the pulmonary function will avert more serious
problems down the line.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Parkinsons Recovery

© 2024 Parkinsons Recovery

Emotional Freedom Technique for Parkinsons

Parkinsons Recovery is all about identifying
approaches and therapies that give relief
from the symptoms of Parkinson’s. One among
many such techniques I have identified from
my research is the Emotional Freedom Technique
for Parkinsons. It is a marvelous, easy to use
technique that has provided relief to some
people with Parkinsons I have interviewed.

Can it help you? Maybe. Maybe not, but why not find
out more about it?

EFT can be self-administered. Anyone can use it. It
is free. You do not need to hire a therapist, though
some people prefer to go this route.

In my opinion it is well worth giving EFT a try.
There is really nothing to lose.

Click on the link at the bottom of this newsletter
and you be able to view a video that shows
what happens when EFT is used with good success
by persons with a wide range of illnesses, many of
which are thought to be incurable.

I believe EFT can also be helpful in healing the
traumas associated with Parkinsons. What do the
traumas have to do with Parkinsons?
Regardless of its origin, trauma has a profound
impact on the symptoms of Parkinsons.

Visit the website below. Scroll down and watch the
8 minute video at the bottom/

https://www.palaceofpossibilities.com/

There are many accounts of success on the website
for a variety of conditions. The account below is
for a veteran diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

https://www.palaceofpossibilities.com/post/six-successful-sessions-with-a-war-veteran

How to get started? You can claim a download of EFT instructions from the
website. It is free. I fully acknowledge you may be doubtful doing Emotional Freedom
technique for Parkinsons will prove beneficial to you. But hey? What is there to
lose? At a minimum you will be forging new neural networks because you
are taking on a new and unexplored challenge.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

© Parkinsons Recovery

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

© 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

Craniosacral Therapy for Parkinsons

I was diagnosed with Parkinsons about a year ago and began treatment with levodopa about 6 months ago. Symptoms have been alleviated. I also began craniosacral therapy for Parkinsons about the same time as the levodopa. So, of course now I cannot tell which has been helpful.

My question however is about the scheduling of craniosacral massage: should I expect to have massage treatments on a periodic basis whenever symptoms worsen or should I schedule sessions on a regular basis regardless of symptoms? In other words, do conditions alleviated by craniosacral massage recur?

Thank you for all you do.

Carol

Decisions about the timing of any treatment – in this case craniosacral therapy – are in large part a function of the purpose you wish the therapy to serve. The answer is actually rooted in the thought which underpins your decision to do the therapy.

Is the purpose to alleviate symptoms? If so, the intent is not to heal the underlying cause of the symptoms. It is probably best to go when pain surfaces or symptoms flare. Recognize here that you are in a negative cycle. You have embraced the thought form that you will not get better, so the best you can do for yourself is to address symptoms as best you can.

As I write this I can feel a very low energy and energy to this plan of action. And, if this is the purpose, you will be seeing a craniosacral therapist for the rest of your life.

Is the purpose to heal the underlying cause of the symptoms? If so, the challenge is to work with a craniosacral therapist so that you can unwind and release the trauma that is trapped at the cellular level in your body. If you set your intention to heal and release the trauma, you will gradually feel better and better, though you may have setbacks here and there as your body adjusts.

Once the trauma is released and the tension in the body has been unwound, you do not have to continue getting regular treatments. Only if you are re traumatized will additional treatments be necessary.

This needs to be a gentle and gradual process, with no reason to rush or nudge it forward faster than your body can tolerate. As I write this paragraph, I can feel a very high level of energy and hope exudes every cell of my body.

How often should you go? Your body will give you the answer. Just ask it.

When it comes to decisions regarding craniosacral therapy for Parkinsons, the answer depends on the thought form that is motivating the interest in doing the therapy. Is the
expectation to supress the symptoms temporarily as is the case with medications or is
the expectation to heal the trauma that lies at the foundation of the disease.

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

© 2024 Parkinsons Recovery

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. 

 

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