"Parkinsonism" refers to a group of common neurodegenerative disorders which are second only to Alzheimer's in frequency.
The stooped posture, tremor at rest, slow shuffling gait, rigidity, and less expressive face are typical features. Although the cause is not clearly understood, it may in ways be related to the fact that brain cells can degenerate when exposed to toxic substances in the context of undernutrition particularly when there is a genetic predisposition.
Nearly all forms of Parkinsonism result from reduced production of dopamine in a particular part of the brain – the substantia nigra. Low dopamine levels greatly restrict communication between the brain and other parts of the body.
According to a recent review in the Journal of the American Medical Association (August 21, 2017) "Parkinson disease has been described as one of the most complex syndromes encountered in clinical medicine. Long-term treatment with dopaminergic agents, the mainstay of therapy, necessitates constant recalibration and possibly additional pharmacological, behavioral, and surgical therapy. Numerous motor and nonmotor PD symptoms may complicate the diagnosis and present therapeutic challenges."
The mainstay of our approach to Parkinsonism involves amino acid balancing. This effective way of managing the symptoms and progression of Parkinson's was developed by Marty Hinz, M.D. He has published multiple peer-reviewed papers over the past several years describing a novel approach which combines the oldest of therapies, L-dopa, with amino acid balancing for the control of side effects. If the fight to halt the progression of this neurodegenerative disorder is started early in the course of the disease, significant improvements can be seen.
Other components of our approach include therapeutic exercise, special diets, healthy microbiome development, hormone replacement and balancing, dietary supplements including antioxidants, maintaining clean toxin free environments, promoting generous glutathione levels, detoxifying the body (pesticides, heavy metals, and mold toxins), autonomic balancing, minimizing drug side effects and control of chronic infection.
Although there is no cure for this condition, a number of steps can be taken that have the potential to slow the process of degeneration and increase function. The program we offer is not easy: it requires discipline, dedication, perseverance, and substantial resources. Results can be remarkable in many patients. The approach we suggest is a work in progress: modifications are made regularly to improve outcomes. For a list of research articles which support this approach look at the NeuroResearch website: www.neurosupport.com.
A multidisciplinary approach to PD treatment including physical, occupational, and speech and swallowing therapy; neuropsychology, counseling psychology, and social work therapy is likely beneficial.