Is massage effective for Parkinson's disease?

Written by Zhou Yan

Geriatrics

Updated on May 18, 2025

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The treatment of Parkinson's disease is comprehensive, with medication being the core method. Surgical treatments can supplement medication, and it is also important to include physical rehabilitation and psychological therapy. When patients have their symptoms and signs controlled by medication, massage can be administered to enhance their motor abilities and coordination, improving symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. Massage therapy, therefore, has proven to be somewhat effective in this respect.

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Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

1min 3sec

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How to medicate for the rigidity in Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease presents with rigidity, mainly due to increased muscle tone and muscle rigidity, which is a very important clinical manifestation of Parkinson's disease. The medications used for rigidity in Parkinson's disease mainly include the following types. The first type is dopamine receptor agonists, which can improve limb muscle rigidity to some extent and delay the progression of the disease. The second type of medication is levodopa preparations, which are currently the gold standard for treating Parkinson's disease. Many patients experience significant clinical improvement after taking the medication. The third type of medication includes some anticholinergic drugs. These drugs are particularly effective against tremors and also have some effect in improving rigidity. Medication for Parkinson's disease must be taken under the guidance of a doctor. It is also important to note that levodopa preparations should be taken on an empty stomach or two hours after a meal for better efficacy.

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Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

53sec

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What foods should be eaten for Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease does not have any specific dietary restrictions, but the following aspects are recommended for patients: First, patients should consume more laxative vegetables and fruits, such as spinach, bananas, and celery, which help maintain the motility of the large intestine and promote bowel movements. Since many Parkinson's patients suffer from constipation, these foods can greatly improve their bowel movements and are recommended. Second, Parkinson's patients can also eat foods that nourish brain cells, such as pine nuts, walnuts, and pistachios. Third, patients may consume some plant oils, mainly olive oil, which can also play a good regulatory role. Fourth, Parkinson's patients should be cautious about the timing of protein intake in relation to their medication schedule, to avoid affecting the absorption of the medication.

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Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

1min 4sec

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Is Parkinson's disease dangerous?

Parkinson's disease is a chronic condition and a progressive degenerative disorder of the nervous system. The main symptoms include slowed movements, increased muscle tone, resting tremors, and abnormal posture and gait. The onset of the disease is slow and subtly worsens over time. Although not highly dangerous in itself and not directly life-threatening, Parkinson’s disease currently lacks a cure, and the condition gradually worsens. Generally, within about 10 to 20 years, patients may experience significant balance impairments. The main risks involve instability while walking, which can lead to falls and potentially cause fractures and other complications. In later stages, patients often become bedridden, leading to possible complications such as pulmonary infections, urinary tract infections, bedsores, and malnutrition. Therefore, Parkinson's disease is relatively mild, manageable in the early stages, but requires careful attention in later stages to prevent complications and avoid unnecessary harm.

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Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

1min 4sec

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What medicine is used for Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease is a relatively common neurological disorder, with a higher incidence in middle-aged and elderly people. Currently, there is no specific cure for the disease, but there are many medications that can significantly improve the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. The commonly used medications mainly include: The first major category is Levodopa preparations. This type of medication has good efficacy but can cause some adverse drug reactions and may provoke the occurrence of motor complications. It should be taken under the advice of a doctor. The second major category of drugs is dopamine receptor agonists. These drugs also have relatively good effects and can improve the motor symptoms of patients, though they may be a bit expensive. Third, anticholinergic drugs. They can significantly improve the patients' normal symptoms, but should not be taken by patients with cognitive impairments. Additionally, there are monoamine oxidase inhibitors and COMT inhibitors that can also be used.

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Written by Liu Hong Mei

Neurology

56sec

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Parkinson's disease Braak staging

Parkinson's disease Braak staging is generally divided into five stages: Stage 1 refers to unilateral symptoms only, such as tremors or stiffness in one hand or one foot, with symptoms confined to one side of the body and not crossing the midline. Stage 2 refers to mild symptoms on both sides, such as tremors in both hands or throughout the body, but without impairment of balance. Stage 3 refers to more pronounced bilateral symptoms, such as difficulty lifting legs, taking small shuffling steps, leaning forward, or instability when holding a bowl while eating, but capable of living normally. Stage 4 refers to the loss of most of the ability for autonomous activity. Stage 5 refers to a complete loss of the ability to live independently.