symptoms of parkinsons disease : Complementary Treatments

A number of modalities and nutritional supplements can help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. It is imperative that patients inform their physician of any over-the-counter medications, herbs, or other supplements that they use on a regular basis, because they may interact with medication and because drug dosages may need to be adjusted.

Physical therapy can help strengthen and tone underused muscles, and give rigid muscles a better range of motion. The goal is to help build body strength, improve balance, overcome gait problems, and improve speaking and swallowing.

Simple physical activity such as walking, gardening, and swimming can improves one's sense of well-being.

Gentle, soothing massage techniques may provide relief from muscle rigidity and may have some neuromuscular benefit as well.

The slow flowing movements of Tai Chi help maintain flexibility, balance, and relaxation. The Struthers Parkinson's Center in Minneapolis, which teaches a modified form of Tai Chi, consistently reports benefits achieved by patients in all stages of Parkinson's.

Support groups provide a caring supportive environment in which patients and their loved ones can ask questions about Parkinson's, expressing their frustrations, and obtain advice about coping with and treating symptoms from people who share the same problem.

Parkinson's appears to progress more slowly in those who remain involved in activities that they enjoyed before the onset of symptoms and in those who engage in new interests.

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