Can Acupuncture Help Parkinson’s Symptoms?
Author: Dr. Scott McFarlane, Clinic Director, Doctor of Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, balance, and overall physical health. As the second most common neurodegenerative disorder worldwide, it impacts more than ten million people across the globe. While medications and surgical options are often effective in managing certain symptoms, many patients continue to experience challenges such as tremors, stiffness, fatigue, and disrupted sleep. For those seeking a more integrative path to wellness, acupuncture is emerging as a supportive therapy within holistic healthcare models.
This article explores the role acupuncture can play in supporting those living with Parkinson’s disease, examining both the clinical research and the value of integrative treatment plans that nurture resilience, balance, and quality of life.
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is primarily caused by the gradual loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Dopamine is essential for smooth muscle movement, coordination, and mood regulation. As levels decline, symptoms such as tremors, muscle rigidity, slowed movement, and impaired balance begin to emerge. Over time, many individuals also experience non-motor symptoms including depression, anxiety, constipation, insomnia, and cognitive changes.
Although pharmaceutical treatments such as levodopa remain the standard of care, they may lose efficacy over time or introduce side effects. As a result, many patients are exploring complementary therapies that focus on improving wellness, rather than simply managing symptoms.
Acupuncture in the Context of Holistic Healthcare
Acupuncture, a core modality of Traditional Chinese Medicine, involves the insertion of fine needles at specific points on the body to regulate energy flow and restore physiological balance. In a holistic health context, acupuncture is not considered a cure for Parkinson’s disease. Rather, it is a complementary therapy that helps support the body’s natural capacity for repair, regulation, and recovery.
Holistic health practitioners often recommend acupuncture alongside other wellness practices such as nutrition counseling, massage, mindfulness, and therapy to create a comprehensive approach. By addressing both the physical and emotional dimensions of Parkinson’s disease, acupuncture may provide patients with additional tools for resilience.
What the Research Says
While research is ongoing, there is growing evidence that acupuncture may help alleviate some symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
1. Motor Symptoms
A review published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews found that acupuncture, when combined with conventional therapies, may help improve motor function in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. While further high-quality research is needed, the findings suggested improvements in tremor reduction and movement capacity (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews - Acupuncture for Parkinson’s disease).
2. Non-Motor Symptoms
Parkinson’s also affects sleep, energy levels, and emotional wellbeing. A study in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience found that acupuncture improved sleep quality and reduced fatigue, pointing to its role in managing non-motor symptoms often overlooked in conventional care (Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience - Acupuncture for non-motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease).
3. Neuroprotective Effects
Emerging studies in Neural Regeneration Research propose that acupuncture may offer neuroprotective benefits by modulating inflammation and supporting dopamine-producing neurons. This could potentially influence disease progression when used alongside standard treatment (Neural Regeneration Research - Neuroprotective effects of acupuncture in Parkinson’s disease).
4. Quality of Life Improvements
A randomized controlled trial in Movement Disorders found that acupuncture significantly improved quality of life measures in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Participants reported reduced pain, better sleep, and increased daily functioning (Movement Disorders - Acupuncture for Parkinson’s disease: a randomized controlled trial).
Taken together, these studies suggest that while acupuncture is not a replacement for medical treatment, it can be an effective adjunct therapy for improving both motor and non-motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease.
How Acupuncture Works for Parkinson’s
The mechanisms through which acupuncture benefits Parkinson’s patients are still being studied, but current evidence points to several possible pathways:
Regulation of Neurotransmitters: Acupuncture may influence dopamine and serotonin levels, which play a role in mood, movement, and sleep.
Reduction of Inflammation: Chronic neuroinflammation is a key feature of Parkinson’s disease, and acupuncture has been shown to lower inflammatory markers.
Improved Neural Connectivity: Functional MRI studies suggest that acupuncture stimulates brain regions involved in motor control and emotional regulation.
Stress Reduction: Acupuncture activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps lower stress and anxiety—factors that can worsen Parkinson’s symptoms.
Benefits of Acupuncture for Parkinson’s Patients
When delivered by licensed holistic health practitioners, acupuncture offers a number of potential benefits for those living with Parkinson’s disease:
1. Symptom Relief
Relief from motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and poor coordination.
2. Enhanced Sleep and Energy
Improved sleep quality and daytime energy levels.
3. Mood and Emotional Balance
Patients often report reduced anxiety and depression, which are common in Parkinson’s disease.
4. Non-Invasive and Low Risk
Safe, non-invasive treatment with minimal side effects.
5. Improved Quality of Life
Many patients experience overall wellness improvements, including better coping with stress and greater daily comfort.
Considerations and Limitations
Acupuncture is not a cure for Parkinson’s disease and should always be used in partnership with medical care. Patients should consult with both their neurologist and a qualified acupuncturist before beginning treatment.
While the evidence base is growing, additional large-scale studies are needed to more clearly define acupuncture’s role in disease progression and symptom management.
Integrating Acupuncture into Holistic Healthcare
In San Diego and across wellness-forward communities, acupuncture is increasingly included in comprehensive treatment models. At Saffron & Sage, patients managing Parkinson’s disease may benefit from:
Massage Therapy, which reduces muscle tension and supports circulation.
Nutrition Counseling, promoting brain and metabolic health.
Mindfulness Practices, supporting emotional resilience and nervous system balance.
Therapy and Counseling, to navigate anxiety, grief, or frustration associated with chronic conditions.
Together, these therapies support a holistic healing environment that helps patients adapt and thrive.
Practical Tips for Patients Considering Acupuncture
If you or a loved one is considering acupuncture as part of your Parkinson’s care, consider the following:
Speak with your neurologist to ensure acupuncture is appropriate for your current stage of care
Choose a licensed practitioner experienced in treating neurological and chronic conditions
Track your symptoms before and after sessions to monitor benefits
Commit to a consistent schedule, as results are cumulative
Integrate acupuncture into a broader care plan to maximize outcomes
Acupuncture as a Supportive Therapy
Acupuncture is not a replacement for medication, but it offers a powerful complement to conventional care. By reducing stress, supporting brain function, and improving both motor and non-motor symptoms, acupuncture enhances the quality of life for many individuals living with Parkinson’s disease.
Take the Next Step with Saffron & Sage
At Saffron & Sage, we specialize in holistic health, offering therapies that support physical health, emotional balance, and spiritual wellness. Our licensed holistic health practitioners in San Diego provide acupuncture as part of a comprehensive care plan tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s disease and are interested in exploring how acupuncture can support your wellness journey, we are here to help.
Call us today at 619-933-2340 to schedule a consultation or learn more about our holistic healthcare services.
Discover how acupuncture and integrative therapy at Saffron & Sage can help you find balance and resilience in your journey with Parkinson’s disease.