Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting movement and quality of life. As the condition advances, anti-Parkinson’s medications like levodopa become less effective and cause complications. This has led many patients to explore complementary therapies like acupuncture. But does inserting thin needles into the skin actually help relieve Parkinson’s symptoms?
How Acupuncture May Help Parkinson’s Symptoms
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture aims to balance energy (qi) flow in the body by placing ultra-thin needles into acupoints ([1]). Acupuncture may help manage Parkinson’s by:
- Increasing dopamine levels. Acupuncture may stimulate dopamine production and release in the brain ([2]). Low dopamine levels contribute to PD movement issues.
- Improving motor function. Some studies show acupuncture enhances mobility and balance, and reduces tremors and rigidity ([3]).
- Easing non-motor symptoms. Acupuncture may help mood, sleep, pain, fatigue, constipation, and anxiety often associated with PD ([4]).
- Slowing progression. Some animal research indicates acupuncture may protect dopamine neurons, but human data is lacking ([5]).
- Reducing levodopa side effects. Acupuncture may minimize adverse effects of Parkinson’s medications ([6]).
Evaluating the Research on Acupuncture and Parkinson’s
Most studies on acupuncture for PD have been small or lacked controlled groups. While some results seem promising, high-quality data is still limited ([7]).
- A 2016 analysis of 6 studies found acupuncture improved motor function and activities of daily living ([8]).
- A 2021 systematic review concluded evidence is insufficient to determine effectiveness, given the poor methodological quality of studies ([9]).
- Well-designed trials with adequate follow-up remain scarce, so more rigorous research is needed ([10]).
Talk to your neurologist before trying acupuncture. Work with a licensed practitioner experienced in treating Parkinson’s patients ([11]).
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Best Practices for Using Acupuncture With Parkinson’s
If you and your doctor decide to pursue acupuncture, here are some tips for safe, effective treatment:
- Seek a trained acupuncturist. Look for licensure and expertise with Parkinson’s and neuropathy.
- Combine with medications. Use acupuncture as a complementary therapy along with your prescription regimen. Don’t replace conventional treatment.
- Establish a routine. Schedule acupuncture sessions 1-2 times per week for several months to get the most benefit ([12]).
- Target individual symptoms. The acupuncturist can tailor points to issues like pain, stiffness, anxiety, etc.
- Communicate about changes. Keep your neurologist informed if you notice improvements or worsening of symptoms.
While the evidence is still preliminary, some patients report improvement of Parkinson’s symptoms with acupuncture. Talk to your doctor about whether acupuncture, performed correctly and alongside conventional treatment, may be beneficial for managing your PD.
References:
[1] Acupuncture overview – Mayo Clinic
[2] Acupuncture increases dopamine – PLoS One
[3] Acupuncture for PD motor symptoms – Neurosci Lett
[4] Acupuncture for non-motor PD symptoms – Front Aging Neurosci
[5] Acupuncture neuroprotective effects in PD models – Front Aging Neurosci
[6] Acupuncture for levodopa side effects – J Neurosci Rural Pract
[7] Systematic review of acupuncture for PD – Front Neurol
[8] Meta-analysis of acupuncture for PD – Medicine (Baltimore)
[9] Systematic review of acupuncture trials – Front Neurol
[10] Need for more rigorous acupuncture trials – Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci
[11] Selecting an acupuncturist – MJFF
[12] Frequency of acupuncture treatment – LCM
