Ancient Hack Helps Parkinson's Patients Sleep Better
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted August 14, 2024
For the millions living with Parkinson’s, the quest for a good night’s sleep can feel like chasing a distant dream.
The constant tossing and turning, the frustrating mid-night awakenings—it’s a nightly battle that leaves many exhausted and desperate for relief.
But new research has revealed that an ancient healing practice—one that’s been around for thousands of years—might hold the key to FINALLY unlocking restful nights for these sleep-deprived folks.
And the best part? It doesn’t come in a pill bottle.
If you’re battling Parkinson’s, this drug-free therapy could send your sleep quality soaring.
Sleep disturbances are a common and often debilitating symptom of Parkinson’s, affecting up to 90 percent of patients.
Both the disease and the medications to treat it can contribute to sleep issues. However, a growing body of research suggests that acupuncture could offer a drug-free alternative to improve the sleep quality of Parkinson’s patients.
In fact, a recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that acupuncture significantly improved sleep quality in Parkinson’s patients. The effect lasted for the full eight weeks of the study.
Most people with Parkinson’s don’t have trouble falling asleep initially. However, they frequently wake up throughout the night and struggle to fall back asleep.
This fragmented sleep pattern can lead to daytime fatigue, decreased quality of life, and even worsening of other Parkinson’s symptoms.
Common sleep disturbances in Parkinson’s include…
- insomnia,
- REM sleep behavior disorder,
- restless leg syndrome,
- sleep apnea, and
- excessive daytime sleepiness.
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body.
While the exact mechanisms are still being studied, acupuncture is thought to work by…
- regulating neurotransmitters,
- reducing inflammation,
- alleviating pain and stiffness, and
- promoting relaxation.
If you or someone you care about has Parkinson’s and is struggling with sleep issues, it’s worth considering acupuncture to relieve your symptoms.
Other ways to support better sleep include limiting caffeine and alcohol, establishing a consistent sleep schedule, and optimizing the sleep environment with a dark, quiet, and cool bedroom.
P.S. Holistic hacks to manage Parkinson’s symptoms.
Source:
Yan M, Fan J, Liu X, et al. Acupuncture and Sleep Quality Among Patients With Parkinson Disease: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(6):e2417862. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.17862
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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