Ancient Hack Helps Parkinson's Patients Sleep Better
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.
View More Free Articles
Mailbag: Ease Peripheral Neuropathy Nerve Pain NATURALLY
“What is your position on peripheral neuropathy?” —On Pins and Needles Hi Pins, Peripheral neuropathy is a challenging condition that affects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, often causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the hands and feet. Many folks describe neuropathies as feeling like pins and needles, tingling, or burning. When I...
Pancreas Protector Discovered in the VITAMIN Aisle
Most of us are concerned about our heart health. We also take steps to protect our brains. Even our kidneys and livers get some attention. But the pancreas? It’s seldom given a second thought—or at least, not until something goes wrong. And when it does, it can be serious business. The pancreas is vital for...
Study Reveals New Health Risk in Ultra-Processed Food
New research reveals that ultra-processed foods are even WORSE for our health than we imagined. And the problem isn’t just the sugar, salt, and artificial ingredients. There’s another sneaky threat lurking in convenience foods. And it could multiply their health risks… A recent study published in the journal Globalization and Health uncovered an alarming problem...
A Simple Vitamin Solution Combats Parkinson’s
Our understanding of the gut-brain connection has grown rapidly in recent years. So, it’s no surprise that scientists suspect a connection between gut health and the development of Parkinson’s. However, new research is adding more details to the picture. A groundbreaking study revealed two common nutrients are often critically low in folks with Parkinson’s. This...
The “Cellular Wildfire” Fueling Long-COVID Revealed
A significant number of folks continue to feel unwell after supposedly “recovering” from COVID-19. I have some exciting news if you’re one of the millions battling long-COVID. Scientists from the University of Queensland just uncovered a crucial piece of the puzzle—and all signs point to inflammation as the culprit. Let me explain… ***** This groundbreaking...
Top 9 Nutrients Needed to Maintain Good Health
Let’s face it… the supplement aisle at your local grocery store is kind of overwhelming. Standing there staring at rows upon rows of colorful bottles, each promising better health, increased energy, or miraculous benefits can leave you feeling downright dizzy. With so many options, how can you possibly know which nutrients are truly essential for...
The Mini-Movement Revolution Beats Traditional Workouts
I get it… not everyone loves exercise. But you don’t have to become a gym rat to get major health benefits. New research reveals that those quick trips to take the garbage out or go to the bathroom might be even MORE valuable than your scheduled exercise time. In fact, these mini-movement breaks could be...
Mailbag: Natural Fixes for Stubborn Toenail Fungus
“Is there an actual cure for toenail fungus?” —Feeling Frustrated If you are frustrated because you’ve been battling toenail fungus, I’m not surprised. Toenail fungus is incredibly difficult to treat. But don’t give up. With a combination of natural treatments and patience, relief is possible. Here’s what’s worked for my patients in the past… Tea...
Science Reveals Late-Night Anxiety is REAL (Here’s the Fix)
Ever notice how your problems seem WORSE at 3 AM? It turns out those middle-of-the-night anxiety-filled thoughts aren’t just in your head. Research reveals that your brain actually functions differently after midnight. In fact, what goes on during those dark hours could be sabotage your sleep and your decisions. But before you reach for a...
Normal Blood Pressure In 4 Weeks WITHOUT Drugs
High blood pressure affects millions of us. And these hypertension (high blood pressure) medications work, but they often come with unwanted side effects. However, we might have another option. A new study confirms that an often-overlooked root vegetable can help normalize blood pressure FAST… Research conducted by scientists at Queen Mary University of London revealed...