PARKINSON’S DISEASE AND NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS

Parkinson’s disease, parkinsonism

Hand tremors, limb tremors, muscle stiffness, slow movement, and declining daily functioning are the symptoms most frequently faced by patients with Parkinson’s disease and parkinsonism.
One of the first questions that arises with growing symptoms is whether more can be done to reduce hand tremors, improve daily functioning, and find additional supportive methods outside of standard neurological treatment.

Acupuncture as a supportive method for Parkinson’s disease

For years, acupuncture has generated interest as a supportive method for various health issues, which is why it is also considered as an additional support for Parkinson’s disease and parkinsonism.
In our practice, we use implant acupuncture—a method based on a single procedure of placing microscopic, bioresorbable implants into carefully selected acupuncture points.
It does not replace neurological treatment, pharmacotherapy, or a medical diagnosis, but following a prior qualification, it can serve as an additional supportive method.

How long does implant acupuncture work?

In the case of therapy targeted at Parkinson’s disease, the effect of the implants can last up to about 5 years, after which the material gradually undergoes biodegradation and resorption, meaning natural breakdown and absorption by the body.
The most important aspects:

• a single procedure,
• long-lasting effect,
• no need for frequent, regular sessions.

When do the first effects appear?

Implant acupuncture is not an immediate method.
The key follow-ups to evaluate the body’s reaction usually take place:

• the first mandatory evaluation after about 2 months,
• another important follow-up usually about 6 months after the implantation.

It is this observation over time that allows us to assess how the body responds to the therapy and whether the expected changes in selected symptoms are being observed.

Symptoms for which patients most often seek additional support

These most commonly relate to problems such as:

• hand tremors in Parkinson’s,
• limb tremors,
• muscle tension and stiffness,
• decline in physical mobility,
• difficulties in daily functioning,
• searching for additional methods to support Parkinson’s treatment.

Development and application of the method – Germany and Switzerland

Implant acupuncture is developed and used, among other places, in Germany and Switzerland, where it is applied in selected areas of supportive therapy, including the context of neurological conditions.
It is there that this method has gained particular clinical significance and remains a method developed and used by some specialists in supportive therapies.

Frequently asked questions

Possible effects of the therapy

In some patients, a reduction in the severity of selected symptoms is observed, but the scope of the effects always depends on:

• the stage of the disease,
• the type of symptoms,
• the individual response of the body,
• proper qualification.

Qualification, detailed examination, and safety

Not every patient qualifies for the therapy.
Of key importance are:

• a confirmed diagnosis of Parkinson’s or parkinsonism,
• analysis of medical documentation,
• assessment of indications and contraindications,
• safety and realistic expectations.

A particularly important element is also a detailed examination conducted by qualified acupuncturists before starting therapy, the purpose of which is to thoroughly assess health status, the body’s individual response, and to check whether this method is therapeutically justified in a specific case.
It is this precise assessment and the correct determination of therapeutic points that represent a key element of the entire process.

The first step

The foundation is a proper consultation and a thorough assessment of health, documentation, and the body’s response, the goal of which is to check whether implant acupuncture can provide justified support for Parkinson’s disease, hand tremors, muscle stiffness, or other symptoms affecting daily functioning, mobility, and quality of life.
For many patients, the most important question is:
Can more be done to support daily functioning and improve quality of life?