The Parkinson’s Protocol™ By Jodi Knapp Parkinson’s disease cannot be eliminated completely but its symptoms can be reduced, damages can be repaired and its progression can be delayed considerably by using various simple and natural things. In this eBook, a natural program to treat Parkinson’s disease is provided online. it includes 12 easy steps to repair your body and reduce the symptoms of this disease. The creator of this program has divided into four segments to cover a complete plan to treat this disease along with improving your health and life by knowing everything about this health problem. The main focus of this program is on boosting the levels of hormone in your brain by making e a few easy changes in your lifestyle, diet, and thoughts
Are there alternative therapies or complementary treatments for Parkinson’s disease in Australia?
Yes, in Australia, many people with Parkinson’s disease use complementary and alternative therapies alongside conventional treatments to reduce symptoms, improve well-being, and maintain independence. Even though these therapies do not treat Parkinson’s, some may alleviate some motor or non-motor symptoms when used properly and under medical supervision.
???? Most Popular Complementary and Alternative Therapies in Australia
1. Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy
Generally accepted as required, though not “alternative” per se.
Frequently covered by Medicare, private health insurance, or the NDIS.
2. Acupuncture
Used for pain, stiffness, and sleep disorder.
Evidence mixed, although relief from symptoms for some individuals has been reported.
Delivered by qualified acupuncturists and sometimes GPs with special training in integrative medicine.
3. Massage Therapy
Reduces tension, anxiety, and pain.
Frequently used during palliative phases or at times of “off” periods.
May be made available through Parkinson’s community centers or private therapists.
4. Music and Dance Therapy
Dance for Parkinson’s Australia is one of a number of programs that use rhythm and movement to enhance mobility, coordination, and mood.
Music therapy can assist speech, walking, and mood.
5. Tai Chi and Yoga
Improve balance, strength, flexibility, and prevention of falls.
There is growing evidence to support their use in early to moderate PD.
Widely available in community classes and often subsidised.
6. Aromatherapy and Relaxation Therapies
Can assist with stress relief, sleep, and relaxation.
Lavender and peppermint oils are most commonly used.
7. Dietary and Herbal Supplements
Some Australians use Coenzyme Q10, turmeric, omega-3s, and vitamin D.
Always consult with a neurologist initially prior to taking supplements—some will interact with medications.
8. Medical Cannabis (Limited Use)
Prescribed in Australia on an as-needed basis through the TGA’s Special Access Scheme.
Anecdotal evidence for pain, sleep disorder, and anxiety, but clinical trials are just beginning to appear.
⚠️ Key Considerations
Always consult alternative therapies with a neurologist or GP to avoid drug interactions.
Use qualified, registered practitioners (e.g., AHPRA-registered or professional association members).
Avoid therapies that promise a “cure” or ask you to stop medications.
???? Where to Find These Therapies in Australia
Parkinson’s Australia and the state-based organisations offer referrals, programs, and classes.
My Aged Care, NDIS, and private health insurance may cover part of the cost.
Group sessions or individual services are offered by community centres, hospitals, and telehealth providers.
✅ Conclusion
Alternative treatments in Australia have a role to contribute towards enhancing the well-being of patients with Parkinson’s if used sensibly. They work best as extras—and not substitutes—to medical management, and under the guidance of health specialists.
Would you like help finding specific programs or accredited therapists in your region?
Parkinson’s disease medications, usually prescribed to manage symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and slowness, have a range of potential side effects. In Australia, as in any other location, the types of medication administered may lead to a range of issues, and side effects vary with the drug, dose, and individual response. The following is the breakdown of the common medicines and potential side effects:
1. Levodopa (usually taken in combination with Carbidopa)
Most Widely Used Drug: Levodopa is the “gold standard” drug for Parkinson’s disease and typically taken with carbidopa to prevent breakdown of levodopa prior to the brain.
Side Effects:
Nausea and Vomiting: Typically alleviated by eating before taking the medication.
Dyskinesia: Spontaneous, uncontrollable movements, especially following prolonged therapy.
Motor Fluctuations: “On” intervals (when drug works) and “Off” intervals (when worsened by symptoms).
Hallucinations and Delusions: Especially in elderly patients or in patients on large doses.
Low Blood Pressure: Can cause dizziness or fainting when getting up.
2. Dopamine Agonists (e.g., Pramipexole, Ropinirole)
Action: Mimic the action of dopamine on the brain, commonly used in starting therapy or in combination with levodopa.
Side Effects:
Drowsiness or Sleep Attacks: Sleep attack, dangerous, especially driving.
Impulse Control Disorders: Includes compulsive behavior like gambling, shopping, or hypersexuality.
Nausea and Vomiting: Especially early in treatment.
Hallucinations: Can cause confusion, particularly in elderly patients.
Leg or foot swelling: A common side effect.
3. MAO-B Inhibitors (e.g., Selegiline, Rasagiline)
Action: Inhibit the enzyme monoamine oxidase B, which breaks down dopamine, thus enhancing the supply of dopamine.
Side Effects:
Headache or Dizziness: Especially on standing.
Nausea: May happen, particularly on an empty stomach.
Insomnia: Due to the stimulating effect of the drug.
Possible Interaction with Specific Foods: Avoidance of high-tyramine foods (e.g., cheese, cured meats) is recommended, though more recent drugs like rasagiline have fewer dietary restrictions.
4. COMT Inhibitors (e.g., Entacapone, Tolcapone)
Action: Prolong levodopa’s effect by blocking the enzyme catechol-O-methyltransferase, which breaks down dopamine.
Side Effects:
Diarrhea: Common issue with entacapone.
Orange Urine: Odorless but possibly terrifying.
Liver Toxicity (Tolcapone): Tolcapone has an association with liver problems, therefore it requires monitoring of liver function.
Nausea and Vomiting: Especially on drug initiation.
5. Anticholinergics (e.g., Benztropine, Trihexyphenidyl)
Action: Support tremor and rigidity by blocking the action of acetylcholine at the brain.
Side Effects:
Dry Mouth, Blurred Vision, and Constipation: Oftentimes due to drying effect on mucous membranes.
Cognitive Impairment and Confusion: Especially in older patients.
Urinary Retention: Inability to void.
6. Amantadine
Function: Originally developed as an antiviral, amantadine is useful for motor symptoms and can reduce dyskinesia in some patients.
Side Effects:
Livedo Reticularis: Purple rash on the skin with blotchy areas.
Swelling of the Legs and Ankles: Typically with long-term treatment.
Hallucinations and Confusion: Especially in older patients.
Nausea and Dizziness: Also causes sleep impairment.
7. Atypical Antipsychotics (e.g., Clozapine, Quetiapine)
Function: To treat hallucinations and psychosis, which might be induced by Parkinson’s medication.
Side Effects
Weight Gain: Common with quetiapine.
Sedation and Drowsiness: Can cause daytime somnolence.
Metabolic Changes: Elevated cholesterol and blood glucose levels.
Movement Disorders: Rare, but possible worsening of Parkinsonian side effects.
8. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Medication-Related Side Effects
Even though DBS is a surgical treatment, patients may need changes in their medicines after surgery. Some have fewer drug side effects, but it is not without its problems.
Post-Surgery Side Effects: These can include mood changes or problems with the stimulation device, leading to side effects such as trouble with speech or movement.
Management and Monitoring in Australia
Monitoring on a Regular Basis: Australian physicians regularly monitor patients on Parkinson’s medication, titrating doses and trying to achieve a balance between controlling symptoms and side effects.
Multidisciplinary Care: Clinicians, including neurologists, Parkinson’s disease specialists, physiotherapists, and dietitians, all play a part in managing these side effects.
Adjusting Medications: When problematic side effects happen, the course of treatment may be altered through adding or replacing medications, or considering treatments such as DBS.
Would you like to get more information regarding some treatments or how these side effects are addressed in Australian facilities?
The Parkinson’s Protocol™ By Jodi Knapp Parkinson’s disease cannot be eliminated completely but its symptoms can be reduced, damages can be repaired and its progression can be delayed considerably by using various simple and natural things. In this eBook, a natural program to treat Parkinson’s disease is provided online. it includes 12 easy steps to repair your body and reduce the symptoms of this disease. The creator of this program has divided into four segments to cover a complete plan to treat this disease along with improving your health and life by knowing everything about this health problem. The main focus of this program is on boosting the levels of hormone in your brain by making e a few easy changes in your lifestyle, diet, and thoughts