Massage Therapy As A Complementary Treatment For Parkinsons Disease: A Systematic Literature Review
Massage is one of the most commonly used forms of CAM.
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There is a wide range of safe massage techniques with beneficial effects on both motor and non-motor symptoms of PD.
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A personalized approach for PD patients should combine massage therapy techniques with conventional medicine.
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Longitudinal studies are needed to justify the introduction of massage therapy into clinical practice.
What Are Your Top Footwear Tips For Those Who Have Problems With Their Feet But Want To Get Moving
Exercise is especially good for people with Parkinsons. When exercising, make sure that your footwear fits securely and has a supportive sole.
A trainer-style shoe will give support, but its important to choose trainers that are right for the exercise you are going to do. Good sports shops can help with this so its worth asking.
Massage And Parkinsons Disease
A feeling of wellness spread over the body as each part of the foot was massaged. I am surprised that massage therapy can assist with Parkinsons disease by boosting self-confidence walking abilities as well as improving the performance of daily activities. Osteopathy can help to relieve symptoms in patients with Parkinsons disease. There is no definite cure for Parkinsons disease PD. Positioning should encourage less flexion in posture. Research suggests that massage can help to relieve the muscle stiffness and rigidity that is often found in Parkinsons. Massage Therapy Treatment Plan and Goals for Parkinsons Disease.
Using Massage To Manage Pain From Parkinsons
Massage therapy is used to treat a range of mental and physical health conditions, and can be a good alternative to conventional methods of treatment. When it comes to individuals with Parkinsons disease, massage can help to relieve both physical and mental tension, as well as help to alleviate symptoms of pain and muscle stiffness.
What Happens During The Procedure
In the operating room, your scalp will be injected with numbing medication. Your head will be placed in a frame to keep it from moving. Small holes will be drilled into your scalp to allow the implantation of electrodes.
Youll be awake during surgery so you can respond to questions and move particular areas of your body when prompted. This, along with imaging tests, helps pinpoint the areas of the brain where symptoms originate. This is where electrodes will be placed.
Electrodes may be implanted on one or both sides of your brain. The neurostimulator will be implanted under the skin near your collarbone or lower in your chest. Leads will go underneath your skin from head to shoulder, connecting the electrodes to the neurostimulator. The tiny holes in your skull will be closed.
After surgery, youll be monitored for complications. Youll spend at least 24 hours in the hospital, but longer if you have complications.
Some risks of surgery are:
- bad reaction to anesthesia
- allergic reaction to materials in the implanted device
- pain or swelling at the surgical site
- infection
Causes Of Parkinson’s Disease
The causes of Parkinsons disease are still greatly unknown. Scientists who have studied this disorder estimate that 10-15% of cases come from genetics after seeing a series of genetic mutations that were common in Parkinsons patients.
Doctors suspect that environmental factors and lifestyle choices may have effects on the severity of Parkinsons disease symptoms. Exposure to chemicals like pesticides may increase the likelihood of developing Parkinsons disease. On the other hand, a good and regular may decrease your chances.
Parkinsons Disease And Massage/exercise Rehab
I thought I would do another reflective piece for my blog this time round again. Recently, I have had a few clients within the past few weeks present to me with Parkinsons disease. Parkinsons is more common in people over the age of 65 years and currently affects 110,000 Australians which really is a large number, but considering Australia has approx. 24 million having 4 clients, 3 under the age of 65 in a span of 3 weeks come to me with the condition is extremely rare and quite sad to see. So I wanted to write this blog to just reach out to those who may be suffering from Parkinsons that there are ways to treat you, unfortunately cannot get rid of the disease but ways to minimise discomfort, pain and symptoms you may be unfortunate in getting.
Going from having control of your whole body and brain, to over time having you brain and body control you, as you can imagine would be a horrible feeling, and not knowing the cause means it can happen to anyone. If you are suffering from Parkinsons, or know someone who is, send them in to me at Melbourne Muscular Therapies, and we will work together to reduce symptoms and pain and fight Parkinsons Disease.
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Forms And Uses Of Coconut Oil
Since there isnt a solid case for how or if coconut oil can treat Parkinsons symptoms in the current literature, we cant be sure how much you should take to try the treatment. But there are some general guidelines for consuming coconut oil.
If youd like to try coconut oil to treat your Parkinsons symptoms, there are several forms available. Cold-pressed, virgin coconut oil is available in liquid form at most health food stores and even major supermarket chains. Starting with 1 teaspoon per day of the pure coconut oil is a good idea, and you can gradually increase to 2 teaspoons if you like the results.
You can also start by using coconut oil to prepare food, substituting it for olive oil or butter in your favorite recipes. Coconut oil is also available in capsule form. Another idea is to start by consuming raw coconut meat and see how it affects your symptoms. And rubbing coconut oil on your muscles might provide relief for soreness caused by spasms. Its anti-inflammatory properties make coconut oil an excellent massage agent.
Music Therapies For Parkinsons Disease
Music therapy, which utilizes rhythm, movement, voice and creativity to try to improve Parkinsons disease symptoms, are very popular for people with PD. Music-based therapies may work in a variety of ways to improve Parkinsons related challenges. The types of therapies that utilize the qualities of music are numerous and varied and it is hard to capture the full breadth of what is available.
A few types of music therapy:
All of these activities may have additional benefits including:
- Providing avenues for socialization Working with others to perform a dance or a song offers the opportunity for socialization and collaboration.
- Enhancing mood and/or cognitive function Some studies support the ability of music-based therapies to improve mood and cognition.
How Can A Chiropodist Podiatrist Or Physiotherapist Help People With Parkinsons Look After Their Feet
If you have problems with your feet, you can visit a podiatrist or a chiropodist for advice there is no difference between them.
Podiatrists look at all areas of foot care, including how the foot should work during normal walking and the problems caused by not walking in a typical pattern.
Your podiatrist can train you to stretch and exercise your muscles to reduce the effects of stiffness or rigidity on your feet. They can also show you simple massage techniques to improve your movement and circulation.
can also help you. They often work with podiatrists on foot-related mobility problems and to help prevent falls.
Complementary Therapies For Pd
Complementary therapies are healing practices, performed in addition to standard treatments, with the goal of improving quality of life. My previous blog on art therapy and its use in Parkinsons disease introduced the concept of complementary therapies. Today, I will discuss complementary therapies more generally and also concentrate on music, dance and singing therapies that are used for PD.
As I have mentioned, some of the complementary therapies that are in use for PD include exercise/movement therapies such as boxing, yoga, and Tai chi, mindfulness techniques such as meditation, manual practices such as acupuncture and massage, and creative pursuits such as singing, music therapy, dance therapy, theater and art therapy.
Most of these complementary therapies have been formally studied in PD patients in some manner, although usually only in small groups of people. Dont see your therapy of choice mentioned? Dont worry the above list is not meant to be comprehensive and does not include every complementary therapy which has been studied in PD patients.
What Is Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinsons disease is the deterioration of brain nerves that control movement. The symptoms of Parkinsons disease have a slow onset and get worse over time. You may experience a gradual onset of symptoms, or notice several changes all at once.
Perhaps the most well-known symptom of Parkinsons disease is the development of a . You may notice that your fingers, hands, or chin shake uncontrollably. Other symptoms include:
- Change in handwriting specifically smaller handwriting
- Changes in your tone of voice specifically speaking more quietly
- Lack of facial expressions
- and
- Beginning to walk with a hunched back
It is important to keep in mind that medications and other medical conditions can cause symptoms similar to those listed above. But, if you are experiencing a combination of these symptoms, it may be a sign of Parkinsons disease.
While there is not currently a cure for Parkinsons disease, many treatment options are available that can help ease your symptoms. Treatments may include medicine, therapy, and even surgery. Each case of Parkinsons disease is unique, and your treatment plan should be, too.
Evidence And Precautions For Massage With Ankylosing Spondylitis
While many people with ankylosing spondylitis and other spinal and inflammatory conditions find massage to be beneficial, there isnt a lot of scientific evidence to support massage as a treatment for AS.
The Spondylitis Association of America states that massage, when done carefully and gently, may provide temporary relief of pain or stiffness and, in some cases, improve flexibility because of increased blood circulation in people with AS.
But its important, the group says, that your massage therapist knows about your condition and any physical limitations you have, and refrains from heavily manipulating any areas where your range of motion may be limited.
Whats more, the SAA says that some people with AS dont tolerate massage well and may experience increased pain after having a massage. While this may not be the most common experience for people with AS, its important to be aware of this risk.
In a research review published in July 2018 in the journal , the authors concluded that for people with AS, deep tissue massage has been found to be useful for symptom relief in small studies.
But one of the articles authors is skeptical when it comes to making recommendations to his patients.
I dont send any patients to massage, says Atul Deodhar, MD, a professor of medicine and medical director of rheumatology clinics at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland.
What Are The Benefits Of Massage For Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disease, which means that the body attacks itself as if it were a foreign body–like a virus–that poses a health threat. People who have lupus, also referred to as systemic lupus erythematosus , do not all show the same symptoms. The disease can affect muscles, joints, the skin and other organs throughout the body. Common symptoms of lupus can include a rash, fever, muscle pain and kidney dysfunction. In addition to medications to help keep lupus symptoms in check, alternative methods such as massage can be beneficial to lupus sufferers.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Treatments For Parkinsons And Parkinsonism
Parkinsons disease is a movement disorder that causes motor symptoms such as stiffness, bradykinesia , resting tremor, and postural instability that can lead to falls. In people who have symptoms of Parkinsons, but the cause is unknown, the condition may be referred to as . There is at present no cure for Parkinsons, and no treatments have been proven to change the course of the disease. However, many people with Parkinsons can improve their symptoms and quality of life with effective treatment options.
Symptoms and severity can vary widely between individuals with parkinsonism. There is no standard treatment for Parkinsons. Guidelines for Parkinsons treatments are based on what a person has, the severity of the symptoms, how long they have had Parkinsons, which and of Parkinsons they have, tolerance of side effects, the age of the person, and any other health conditions they have or medications they use. Some treatments are highly effective for one type of Parkinsons, but ineffective for others. In most people, medications gradually lose their effectiveness as the disease progresses.
How Can Foot Dystonia Affect People With Parkinsons
is a movement disorder that causes contractions in various muscles. This is when muscles become tighter and shorter than normal, making them difficult to stretch. This can happen in your feet.
Dystonia in your feet can be linked to the off period, where your medication wears off and is not as effective at controlling your symptoms. Talk to your specialist or Parkinsons nurse to see if adjusting your medication regime may help.
Strongback Mobility Excursion Chair
This stylish mobility excursion chair is specifically designed for people suffering from mobility problems due to Parkinsons disease or other related conditions.
A unique feature of this chair is its ergonomically curved frame design that may not be available in other traditional chairs. It supports the natural and healthy lumbar curve of the spine, thus preventing the user from slouching forward and squeezing spinal discs with a tremendous amount of unhealthy pressure.
The chair comes with adjustable back flaps that allow the user to easily adjust the location and firmness of lumbar support. It is equipped with swing away detachable footrests and armrests that are designed to fit under desks and tables. Moreover, the large 12 inch rear wheels for ease of use outdoors and on rougher terrain
The chair is ultra-lightweight, compact, and foldable. It fits easily into the trunk of your car. The overall frame of the chair is durable and gives maximum stability. It is strong enough to support a weight of up to 300 Ibs.
Keep A Journal Of Motor Symptoms
Having a detailed record of your motor symptoms can help your neurologist figure out the relationship between your Parkinsons symptoms, your medications, and any side effects you are experiencing. Keep notes in your journal about:
- When you take Parkinsons medications
- The timing of meals, drinks, supplements, and any other medications
- Whether certain foods or drinks seem to affect symptoms
- On times when symptoms are well-controlled
- When symptoms appear, and which symptoms you notice specifically during the day or night
This information can help your doctor better understand your motor fluctuations and provide accurate health care. After living with PD for five years, I started to keep a journal, explained one MyParkinsonsTeam member. I enter the day and time I take my meds. On bad days, when I can take an extra dose of my PD meds, the extra med is in red. On good days, all my times are in black. I took my journal to the doctor last week. Just looking through, he could see if any adjustments are needed. He encouraged me to keep it up!
The Physiology Of Parkinsons
Experts believe that in Parkinsons disease, neurons in the brain gradually break down or die. Many of the symptoms are due to a loss of dopamine-producing neurons. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that stimulates motor neurons, the nerve cells that control muscles. When dopamine production is depleted, the motor system nerves are unable to control movement and coordination. People with Parkinsons disease have lost 80 percent or more of their dopamine-producing cells by the time symptoms appear. While symptoms may appear at any age, the average age of onset is 60 years old.
Massage Therapy For Parkinsons
While data analyzing the role of acupuncture in treatment of PD symptoms is fairly limited, the data on the role of massage in the treatment of PD symptoms is even more so. One clinical trial was done assessing the effects of a 40-minute massage session, with some participants then continuing to receive seven weekly sessions. The control group was not blinded to their status . Despite these limitations, the study showed that massage was helpful in improving quality of life for people with PD.
All of the above begs the question should a person with PD try acupuncture or massage to help their PD symptoms? The bottom line is that there is little formal evidence that either treatment is truly effective. Larger and better designed clinical trials are necessary before these treatments will be routinely recommended.
For now, people with PD can choose to make their own assessments about whether these practices improve their well-being and whether to incorporate acupuncture or massage into their weekly routine. In general there is minimal risk in trying acupuncture or massage, aside from perhaps disappointment if they do not work for you. If you plan to try acupuncture and/or massage, be sure to go to reputable practitioners, preferably ones with experience in treating people with PD.
Off Time Can Be Managed
Your doctor can recommend medical management approaches, such as changing your medication dosage or dosage schedule, or taking levodopa in a different way. They may also prescribe add-on medications, such as , , or apomorphine, which can reduce “off” time and dyskinesia. Other treatment options for Parkinson’s, such as deep brain stimulation, can also reduce “off” time.
However, there are many steps and lifestyle changes you can try to manage off time at home.
How Does Massage Therapy Help With Parkinsons Disease
No matter the cause, Massage Therapy can help with musculoskeletal pain and joint stiffness. Parkinsons occurs most frequently in those over the age of 50, who may already be feeling the effects of aging. Massage can help with muscle spasms and rigidity.
Daily exercise is recommended for people with Parkinsons Disease. Massage can help keep the body flexible and able to handle more activity.
As mentioned early, Parkinsons can affect quality sleep. Massage therapy promotes healthy and deep sleep by relaxing the body and giving the mind a chance to rest as well. Massage can reduce the occurrence of restlessness and thrashing during sleep.
What Can A Parkinsons Sufferer Expect From Massage
Parkinsons Disease can take its toll on a person who is suffering from the disease. Some of the main benefits include a reduced perception of pain due to the release of endorphins, less anxiety and related fatigue, some relief from muscle rigidity and cramping and improved digestion and sleep. The patient may also experience lowered stress, moodiness and depression.
How Do You Know You Have Parkinsons Disease
There is no definitive way to diagnose Parkinsons disease. Your doctor will ask questions about the onset of your symptoms and assess your movement to make referrals to specialists who can make a formal diagnosis.
You can expect to see a who can complete a neurologic examination. This may include brain imaging, an , or a PET scan to see activity in the area of the brain typically affected by Parkinsons disease.
Your doctor may also refer you to a movement disorder specialist. Seeing subspecialists is very important to avoid being misdiagnosed. Highly trained specialists can provide their expertise in specific areas of medicine where a precise diagnosis isnt possible from blood work or another definitive test.
How Does Dbs Treat Parkinsons
Parkinsons disease causes irregular electrical signals in parts of the brain that control movement. DBS uses electrical stimulation to modulate these control centers deep to the surface of the brain, improving communication between brain cells.
This helps to reduce symptoms such as tremor, slowness, and stiffness. It doesnt have much of an effect on non-motor symptoms or balance issues. Here are some additional tips for improving motor skills with Parkinsons.
DBS is the most commonly performed surgical procedure for symptoms of Parkinsons disease.
DBS isnt a first-line therapy. Its intended for people whose symptoms are still unmanageable even with medication. Learn about other advanced and future treatments for Parkinsons.
You might be a good candidate for DBS if:
- youve had symptoms for at least five years
- your symptoms respond to medication, but the effect doesnt last as long as it used to
- youve tried various doses and combinations of medications
- your symptoms interfere with everyday life
Your doctor is unlikely to recommend DBS if:
- Parkinsons medications havent helped much
- you have memory and thinking problems
- you have anxiety or depression that hasnt stabilized with treatment
- you have dementia
Benefits Of Massage Therapy For Sufferers Of Parkinsons
The degenerative process of Parkinsons can be delayed through the practice of systematic physical exercises. There are countless benefits to massage for Parkinsons including that it slows the progress of the disease from one stage to the next.
Regular massage can help to increase the quality of life of a Parkinsons sufferer to that they are able to more easily perform their daily activities. With massage therapy, people who suffer from pain and loss of movement can regain some of their motivation to live.
A regular massage can also be a source of socialization when a patient is isolated. The exercise that is associated with the massage can help to release endorphins so that the patient feels euphoria and pleasure.
Find A Qualified Massage Therapist
If you have Parkinsons, its important to seek a qualified massage therapist to help give you the best treatment. You should look into working with qualified massage therapists who have completed a qualification in deep tissue massage and can be trusted to treat a range of injuries and complaints including muscle stiffness and pain.
Massage Therapy Treatment And Outcomes For A Patient With Parkinson S Disease A Case Report Research Perch Massage Therapy Foundation
Massage and parkinsons disease. Many people with Parkinsons and their carers have told us they find massage therapy useful as a way to relax and to have time to themselves. Research suggests that massage can help to relieve the muscle stiffness and rigidity that is often found in Parkinsons. A specialized massage therapy by our therapist at InHome Physical Therapy and Massage who targets the symptoms of Parkinsons diseases can help the patients to regain functionality and muscle strength and partially helps them to normalize and control their movements.
Massage also decreases anxiety depression and muscle rigidity in these clients. Research has also suggested that massage therapy especially abdominal massage can help with constipation. One clinical trial was done assessing the effects of a 40-minute massage session with some participants then continuing to receive seven weekly sessions.
The massage treatment should be. Although massage is the one of the commonest used forms of complementary and alternative medicine CAM there is no systematically-oriented review focusing specifically on the efficacy of the different. 1 It has been long recognized that massage therapy can benefit people who suffer from Parkinsons Disease.
Therefore the goals for symptomatic treatment are to improve quality of life and manage the motor and non-motor symptoms of the disease. Positioning should be adjusted to the degree of patients rigidity.
What To Know Before Getting A Massage With Ankylosing Spondylitis
Massage can be a good addition to an ankylosing spondylitis treatment regimen for some people. Heres what you ‘knead’ to know about it.
Quinn PhillipsAlexa Meara, MDAdobe Stock
Many people view massage as a luxury or indulgence, but when you have an inflammatory spinal condition like ankylosing spondylitis , it could mean the difference between soreness and a sense of ease.
While many medications treat ankylosing spondylitis by targeting pain and inflammation due to the disease, some people find that massage is a good addition to their overall ankylosing spondylitis management plan.
The gentle kneading of a massage session can help relax muscles that have become tight in response to pain caused by the condition a compensatory reaction by your body to help protect the spine but one that can lead to even more stiffness and soreness over time.
Muscles work by taking joints through a range of motion, says Jeffrey Goldstein, MD, an orthopedic surgeon and chief of the spine service at NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital in New York City.
When spinal vertebrae are inflamed or fused because of AS, theres no longer motion there, so the muscles get tight and can be a source of pain. If you can relieve that stiffness, thats good, Dr. Goldstein says.
Aside from any health benefits related to AS, massage feels good, and visiting a spa or massage studio can be a relaxing experience.