Alternative Therapies for Non-Motor Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease: A Mini Review

Abstract

Parkinson's disease (PD) is primarily recognized for its motor symptoms, yet non-motor symptoms (NMS) such as neuropsychiatric disturbances, sleep disorders, autonomic dysfunction, and sensory abnormalities significantly contribute to the disease's overall burden. While traditional pharmacological and surgical treatments have primarily targeted motor symptoms, alternative therapies such as acupuncture, cognitive therapy, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) are gaining attention for managing NMS. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of alternative therapies for NMS in PD, drawing on evidence from international guidelines and TCM. The review highlights the current gaps in research, emphasizing the need for high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and standardized protocols, particularly in the evaluation of TCM therapies. Additionally, it underscores the potential of integrated treatment approaches that combine traditional and modern medicine, offering a personalized strategy for managing NMS in PD. By addressing these challenges, this review aims to enhance the understanding and application of alternative therapies, ultimately improving the quality of life for PD patients. These therapies, particularly those emphasizing holistic and individualized approaches, such as cognitive therapy and TCM, offer potential solutions to the unmet needs in PD management without causing side effects associated with medications or fluctuations in drug plasma levels.

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease; alternative therapies; non-motor symptoms; traditional Chinese medicine.