Parkinson’s disease affects over 1.5 million Americans. Each year, 60,000 people in America are diagnosed with Parkinson’s. It can affect both men and women, although the rate among men is slightly higher. Most men and women diagnosed with the disease are over the age of 60. However, around 15% of those affected by Parkinson’s are diagnosed before the age of 40.
Parkinson’s is a debilitating disease that affects brain and muscle function. The main sign of Parkinson’s disease is shaking or trembling, especially of the hands. As the disease progresses, muscle shaking worsens which can lead to falling, inability to swallow, or loss of bladder control. Not only does Parkinson’s affect the body, but it also affects the mind as well, often causing confusion or dementia. There is yet to be a cure for Parkinson’s, but there are methods for managing both the progression and the symptoms of the disease. Chiropractic care from a Lithia Springs chiropractor has shown to be an effective method for improving the overall quality of life for those affected by this disease.
What Causes Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s is caused by a lack of dopamine in the brain. Nerve cells are unable to make the necessary dopamine that plays a vital role in telling your body how to move. Dopamine is also essential for smooth, easy muscle control. When these nerves in the brain break down and fail to produce enough dopamine, it is then that individuals will begin to notice the signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s.
What Role Does Chiropractic Play?
Chiropractic care has shown to improve the quality of life as well as slow down the progression of the disease for those suffering from Parkinson’s. Medications may help, but these are often only short-term solutions that mask the symptoms for a short period of time. Chiropractic care is neurologically-based, which means it starts with the nerves and nervous system to focus on treating the root cause of any health issue. A Lithia Springs chiropractor will improve nerve function by improving spinal health. Dr. Ron Bolar of Vital Life Chiropractic performs gentle and specific chiropractic adjustments to remove nerve interference that is affecting overall body function. Improved nerve function can improve symptoms of Parkinson’s as well increase the quality of life for those living with the disease.
Does It Really Work?
When first told about the amazing benefits of chiropractic care for improving health and wellness, many people are skeptical. But case studies show that chiropractic can indeed help with the management of Parkinson’s. One particular case study found that a 68-year-old woman with tremors, lower back pain, poor range of motion in the neck, and fatigue found relief from Parkinson’s symptoms after regular chiropractic care. In another study, chiropractic care drastically reduced Parkinson’s symptoms in a 63-year-old male who was experiencing tremors, back pain, and loss of energy. Being under chiropractic care has countless benefits for not only Parkinson’s symptoms, but also increasing energy, health, and quality of life. If someone you love is suffering from Parkinson’s, chiropractic can help. Get in touch with Dr. Ronnie Bolar of Vital Life Chiropractic to find out more about how chiropractic can improve symptoms of Parkinson’s.
Sources
Landry, S. “Upper Cervical Chiropractic Management of a Patient Diagnosed with Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease: A Case Report.” Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research, 2012 July: 63-70. https://livingvitallife.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Upper-Cervical-Management-of-a-Patient-Diagnosed-with-Idiopathic-Parkinsons-Disease-2.pdf.
Norton, M., Callahan, M. “Reduction of Symptoms Associated with Parkinson’s Disease Subsequent to Subluxation-Based Chiropractic Care: A Case Study.” Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, 2013 Dec: 120-130. https://livingvitallife.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Reduction-in-Symptoms-Associated-with-Parkinsons-Disease-Subsequent-to-Subluxation-Based-Chiropractic-Care-2-1.pdf.