Acupuncture in the treatment of Parkinson's Disease

• While acupuncture is not a 'cure' for Parkinson's Disease, it can help minimise many of the symptoms of PD.
• Clinical trials have shown that acupuncture may maintain dopamine levels by preventing inflammation.
• In one clinical trial, 85% of patients reported improvement of individual symptoms and improvement in motor function.
• Acupuncture treatment is deeply relaxing, reducing the levels of
  stress which make symptoms worse.
• Supportive. Most people say how supported they feel through the process of acupuncture treatment.
• There are no adverse effects. Acupuncture therapy is safe and well tolerated in people living with Parkinson's Disease.
• Further information about acupuncture in the treatment of PD can
  be found through The British Acupuncture Council.

So, how can acupuncture help me?

Acupuncture can help to minimise individual symptoms including:

• tremor of the limbs
• walking and balance
• difficulty handwriting
• speech difficulties
• anxiety and fear
• depression
• sleep problems
• slowness
• pain
• rigidity
• facial immobility
• incontinence

What happens during an acupuncture treatment?

You will be asked about your:

• current symptoms
• what treatment you have received
• what medication you are taking
• your medical history
• your diet and digestive system
• sleeping patterns
• and your emotional state

You will then be made comfortable on the treatment couch and ultra fine, disposable needles will be gently placed on specific points on the body. You will normally remain fully clothed.

Acupuncture treatment can be deeply relaxing and many people fall
asleep!

You will be treated once a week over a three month period at the end of
which you will have a review to access the benefits thus far and to determine how often you may need further acupuncture treatment, ie; once or twice a month.

Two testimonials from The London College of Traditional Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

"I am no longer a Parkinson's patient. I am a person who happens to have a bit of Parkinson's."

"The information I found about PD was so depressing I felt like giving up but acupuncture has such a positive realistic approach to what is happening to me I believe I can look forwards again."