Acupuncture and PD

I don't think I've mentioned this in my blog anywhere but I highly recommend regular acupuncture treatments for people who have Parkinson's Disease. It is a terrific stress and pain reducer and can alleviate other symptoms such as stiffness and digestive problems. I see a local practitioner regularly, about once a month, and vary the length of sessions from a full 75 minute session to a shorter 45 minute session. In fact, the woman that I see instituted shorter sessions at my request, I wanted to see her more frequently but didn't feel that I could afford the long session cost. My insurance does not cover the treatment but I utilize the flexible spending account option offered by my company's health plan and get reimbursed for the acupuncture sessions thereby paying at a pre-tax rate. My practitioner also prescribes herbs for some conditions such as sleeplessness or constipation. The acupuncture, eating healthfully and engaging in regular exercise, I believe, keep me from relying too much on medications, especially those that are for some of the irritating but not too serious symptoms of PD. I've been able to avoid drugs like ambien that have been prescribed for insomnia and prilosec for acid reflux. I had an acupuncture session today and, as usual, it was heavenly. Sounds odd maybe to one who hasn't tried it. Try it and see what you think. Don't go just once, you really need a few sessions to notice results!

PD Woman headed for the altar

The wayward blogger is back to reassure all who doubt it that PD does not signal the end of your life or your fun. Just to prove the veracity of that statement I am here to announce that I am getting married this Sunday! It is not my first marriage, I am one year past my 55th birthday and I have 4 children. Who, you might ask, would marry a woman who has Parkinson's Disease? Well, it turns out that there is at least one man out there who will, his name is Daniel and he professes not to be concerned about the PD. He helps me when I need it and encourages me to get to the gym and take care of myself. We live in central Virginia and still try to get outdoors to hike or kayak on the reservoir nearby, though I am finding it harder and harder to do so. Exercise has saved me I believe, I think I am progressing disease wise much slower because of the exercise. I am worried that I will hold Daniel back but grateful and delighted that he wants to make a life with me despite my disease. Wedding bells beckon and the 'honey do list' needs checking again. When we speak next I will likely be a (re) married woman. Just call me Sadie, "married lady", that's me.