Chiropractic Neurology for Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that causes problems with the brain’s dopamine production. This causes problems that include, but are not limited to: decreased facial expression, reduced arm swing, tremor and problems with initiating movement. But it also causes problems that do not involve movement. Patients can have problems with constipation, loss of smell, sleep and mental health. Chiropractic neurology is well positioned to help manage these symptoms and provide a better quality of life.
Understanding Parkinson’s
Genetic and environmental risk factors are the likely cause of an accumulation of tau proteins in the brain. The accumulation of the proteins leads to tangling. When the tissues form tangles, they are unable to effectively transmit nerve impulses. This leads to motor issues like tremor, difficulty starting and stopping movements, balance problems, as well as non-motor problems like loss of smell and constipation. Research findings are leaning towards pesticides and solvents as likely triggers for forming the tangle. The cumulative effects of this degeneration have significant impacts on daily activities. Patients commonly struggle with being independent. Mobility issues can be challenging day-to-day.
Why Symptoms Can Continue
The degenerative disease is progressive. Damage to the central nervous system is irreversible. Once the tangles form, it is impossible to remove. The best the brain can do is to create new connections around the tangles. This is challenging because the tangles can form faster than the brain’s ability to form new connections.
How Chiropractic Care May Help
Chiropractic neurology can be helpful in supporting these patients by helping form new connections in the brain through sensory stimulation and by finding and reducing triggers. This can be helpful in supporting the brain in cleaning and repairing. The sensory stimulation helps the brain to build the connections between different parts of the brain and the body. Patients will benefit from a well rounded approach to care with this condition.
Our Approach to Care
Individualized Care Plans
Gentle Techniques
Order imaging including x-rays or MRIs when indicated
Adapting Care as Needed
Collaboration With Other Providers
Monitoring Progress Over Time
Rehab exercises when you are ready
Order other advanced testing like EMGs or NCVs when indicated
Who This Care May Be Right For
People with Parkinson’s disease, a family history of the disease, or concerns about chronic exposure to environmental exposures should consider deeper testing.