HAVING FAITH, THE SIXTH WAY TO BEAT PD

Through the words of the Holy Bible, the Greatest Book ever written in the world, you will find the answer to your greatest need, the miracle of healing in THE SIXTH WAY to beat Parkinson's disease THROUGH FAITH.

FAITH

"Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen."

HEBREWS 11:1

"Spring is in the air"

From an original painted with the mouth by J. La Dow

Webster defines faith as a belief and trust in and loyalty to God or a firm belief and complete trust in something for which there is no proof.  Another definition of faith is the agreement of the mind to the statement or proposition of another, based on the manifest truth of what he says. 

The word "faith" has been derived from the Middle English "feith" or from Anglo-French "feid" or "fei". It was also coined from the Latin word "fides" which is akin to Latin "fidere" or "to trust".

FAITH is not just a religion but is a way of life. It is how we perceive events in our lives and how we act on them. It is acting like a child but not being childish. Like a little boy who remained calm during a plane ride despite the turbulence because he had faith in the man in the cockpit. He trusted the pilot to make a safe landing because the pilot is hus father. Thus, faith is having a strong conviction and belief that everything happens for a reason and that God, our Father, will provide all the answers in His own time. 

It is difficult to imagine that your Parkinson's disease is healing whenever you falter in your steps and every movement that you make is slow and a drag.  It is also disheartening when you see your hands tremble and your face remains blank despite wanting to smile back.  When your posture starts to stoop and it seems that your face is ready to touch the ground, what is left is the strong belief that in time, you will overcome and beat your PD through faith in God, taking the right medicine at the right time and with the right dosage, moving your body through regular exercise and being nourished with the right kind of food.

You don't have to see to believe! If you have faith like a mustard seed, recite these prayers:

PRAYER: Dear Lord, You are the Greatest Healer. Everything I have comes from You: my life, my health, my family, my friends, my wealth and all that matter.  I surrender them all to You as I find meaning and purpose in all that is happening to me. I claim complete healing of my mind, body, heart and soul. I claim healing for those who are suffering and are lost. I claim healing of our family tree. I claim financial blessings so I can be a blessing to others, too. May I have the patience and the endurance to hear Your answer to my prayer when You say yes, no or wait. All these I ask in Jesus' name. Amen.

PRAYER FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE

THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED JOHN PAUL II

When my legs are frozen in place,

May God the Father push me and remind me

To lift my toes up and swing my arms

That I may walk again and not be afraid.

When I feel like falling or as my posture stoops,

May Jesus Christ, God the Son, break my fall

And catch me as I move forward

With my legs braced and feet wide apart.

When my movement is slow and I hesitate,

May God the Holy Spirit enlighten my path,

Broaden my horizon and show me the way

That I will be more agile and graceful in my steps and bearing.

When my hands and feet are shaking, or my chin trembles,

And my voice weakens as I speak,

May Mother Mary embrace me to calm me and assure me

That everything will be okay and I can rest in her arms and wait

Until everything is still and steady and I am in peace

As my voice grows strong and clear.

Forgive me, God the Father, for all my sins

Heal me, God the Son, from my Parkinson’s disease

Bless me, God the Holy Spirit, with wisdom and knowledge

Love me, Mother Mary, so that I can love and serve others despite my PD.

Thank you, Lord, for granting my prayers.

We ask all these, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.

Amen.

Our Father…

Hail Mary…

Glory Be…

Blessed John Paul II, Pray for us.

St. Joseph, Pray for us.

REGULAR EXERCISE, THE FIFTH WAY TO BEAT PD

Through the words of the Holy Bible, the Greatest Book ever written in the world, you will find the answer to your greatest need, the miracle of healing in THE FIFTH WAY to beat Parkinson's disease.

"Easter Bunny"
From an original painted with the mouth by A. Sapinska

 EXERCISE REGULARLY

 " Train yourself for devotion, for, while physical training  is of limited value, devotion is valuable in every respect, since it holds a promise of life both for the present and for the future. "

          

                                                                                                     1 TIMOTHY 4: 7-8

Regular exercise in Parkinson’s Disease is recommended since it plays a key role in helping to manage many of the primary and secondary symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. It typically includes strength training, stretching, and aerobic activities. A rehabilitation medicine specialist can also recommend the exercise regimen suited for every PD patient.

You must have a consistent exercise program, based on your ability level. It should be incorporated into your treatment regimen in order to maintain flexibility, mobility, and general well-being. You can develop an exercise program on your own or with a physical therapist. Others find that attending general or PD-specific exercise classes is also helpful.

Regular exercise improves mood, raises your self-esteem, and gives you a better body image. It also elps lessen stress and improves general body function by increasing your muscle tone, strength, and endurance. It also provides better sleeping patterns as well as increased confidence and a more positive attitude to life.

Find an exercise activity or program that you can stick with, or visit your local gym and enrol in a class. This is your chance to take a dancing lessons or learn yoga. Commit to maintaining and improving your health so as to improve your quality of life and to slow down the progression your PD symptoms.




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23ctmPTwgGY&feature=player_embedded#!



It is important that in every exercise regimen, you have the right breathing technique. Breathing is a body function that you do unconsciously at every moment but to be able to maximize the benefit of regular exercise, it should be done via a three-part breath or the diaphragmatic breathing.


In diaphragmatic breathing, you sit tall or lie comfortably on your back. You place one hand on your chest just below the collar bones and the other hand on your abdomen. Inhale through your nose and feel your hand on your abdomen rise first followed by the hand on your chest. On exhale, expel the air from your chest first, then your rib cage and finally your belly. If you feel light headed or dizzy at first, stop and breathe normally and then resume. Practice until you get used to this new way of breathing.

DELEGATE, THE FOURTH WAY TO BEAT PD

Through the words of the Holy Bible, the Greatest Book ever written in the world, you will find the answer to your greatest need, the miracle of healing in THE FOURTH WAY to beat Parkinson's disease.

"Fishermans Wharf"
From an original painted with the mouth by S. Rigg

DELEGATE RESPONSIBILITY



"You are not acting wisely," his father-in-law replied. "You will surely wear yourself out, and not only yourself but also these people with you. The task is too heavy for you; you cannot do it alone. Now, listen to me, and I will give you some advice, that God may be with you..." Moses followed the advice of his father-in-law and did all that he suggested. He picked out able men... and put them in charge of the people as officers over groups of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties and of tens. They rendered decisions for the people in all ordinary cases. The more difficult cases they referred to Moses, but all the lesser cases they settled themselves.

                                                                                  EXODUS 18:17-19,24-26

Are you a jack of all trades? Do you want to be completely hands-on in everything? Do you trust only yourself to do the best job? Are you afraid to train a younger officemate or a junior executive thinking that he or she is out there to get your esteemed position in the company? Do you multi-task? When is it time to give up the keys to the car?

Now is the time for you to release the reins. Know to whom you must delegate the responsibility of taking care of your work while you are on on your way to recovery. Choose a person you can trust to carry out your job. You have to entrust even the menial tasks like paying the bills to someone else to relieve you of your stress and worry.  It's the time for you to enjoy all the free time, away from your job and away from all activities that limit the time you spend with your family and loved one. It is the time to let go of activities that hamper your growth spiritually, mentally or even socially.

People with Parkinson's disease are usually expected to experience a decline in both motor skills and cognition. When these problems arise, it can make driving unsafe. It is to the best interest of the patient with PD to hand over the keys to a more competent driver and find other means of transportation through the help of well meaning family members and friends.


COURAGE, THE THIRD WAY TO BEAT PD

Through the words of the Holy Bible, the Greatest Book ever written in the world, you will find the answer to your greatest need, the miracle of healing in THE THIRD WAY to beat Parkinson's disease.

"The King"
From an original painted with the mouth by B. Peardon

BE COURAGEOUS

" Lively is the courage of those who fear the Lord, for they put their hope in their savior; He who fears the Lord is never alarmed, never afraid; for the Lord is his hope... The eyes of the Lord are upon those who love him; he is their mighty shield and strong support. A shelter from the heat, a shade from the noonday sun. a guard against stumbling, a help against falling. He bouys up the spirits, brings a sparkle to the eyes, gives health and life and blessing."

                                                                                                SIRACH 34: 13-14, 16-17

Michael J. Fox and Muhammad Ali are both courageour warriors in their fight to beat Parkinson's disease. Despite his size and youthful appearance, Fox has remained relentless and focused in his advocacy to find a cure for Parkinson's disease.  He has faced a lot of odds and even censure from many American Republicans in his rally to use stem cells in the treatment of PD. You may not condone his principle but you can admire his tenacity in his pursuit for total healing. Ali is a well known boxer and even called himself  "The Greatest".  He has survived and continued to this day to support several causes for PD awareness. He has also joined forces with Fox in raising funds to help the cause of PD. They are both brave because they have not allowed their PD to hamper their abilities and capacity to make a difference in the world.

Mark Rutherford said that When we are afraid we ought not to occupy ourselves with endeavoring to prove that there is no danger, but in strengthening ourselves to go on in spite of the danger.

Parkinson's disease may be manifested as any one of the four cardinal symptoms, namely, resting tremors, postural instability, muscle rigidity and slow movement. If you are a person afflicted with PD, you must have the courage to move your fingers and be creative because the tremors disappear when your hands are busy. Be brave to stop and brace yourself despite getting stares from innocent bystanders so as not to fall when your posture stoops. Don't be afraid to lift your leg and march in place when your muscles freeze so that you can move forward. Don't be scared when you want to take time just to sit down so as to ensure that your bottom hit the seat right.

Courage is not the absence of fear but having the guts to try and overcome the problems involved in simple body movements and doing your best to circumvent the difficulty and hopefully delay the progression of your Parkinson's disease.

As Paul Green, 88, a former rower at Brown University who picked up rowing again when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 19 years ago, would say, “Nevah Surrendah”.




http://blog.michaeljfox.org/2012/03/paul-greens-perspective-parkinsons-nevah-surrendah/

BALANCED DIET, THE SECOND WAY TO BEAT PD

Through the words of the Holy Bible, the Greatest Book ever written in the world, you will find the answer to your greatest need, the miracle of healing in THE SECOND WAY to beat Parkinson's disease.

"Summer Sweets"
From an original painted with the foot by S. Subadri

EAT A BALANCED DIET

 "Please test your servants for 10 days. Give us vegetables to eat and water to dringk. Then see how we look in comparison with the other young men who eat from the royal table, and treat your servants according to what you see." He acceded to this request, and tested them for ten days; after ten days they looked healthier and better fed than any of the young men who are from the royal table. So the steward continued to take away the food and wine they were to receive, and gave them vegetables.

  

                                                                                                         DANIEL 1: 12-16    

Is there a diet recommended for Parkinson’s disease?

Good nutrition is important for everyone and has a significant role in the management of Parkinson’s disease (PD). In general, a healthy diet can increase energy, optimize the effect of medications, and promote overall well-being, especially in a patient with PD.

Patients with PD may experience constipation, delayed stomach emptying,drug-nutrient interactions, and weight loss. Parkinson's disease affects the autonomic nervous system, resulting in slowed movement of the GI tract. An individual may experience constipation and/or delayed gastric emptying. Gastric emptying may delay or decrease effectiveness of medications. With adequate intake of fluids and fiber, constipation may be prevented. Signs and symptoms of delayed gastric emptying should be observed when determining the timing of meals and medications.

Some individuals, particularly those who experience fluctuations of PD symptoms with their medications, may be very sensitive to the amount of protein in their diets. For these individuals, the timing of medications and meals/snacks containing protein becomes important. With the right amount of  protein consumed at the proper intervals throughout the day, that is 30-60 minutes after medications, both optimal absorption of medications and protein needs are met.

Parkinson’s disease symptoms such as tremor and the medication side-effect of dyskinesia may increase one’s caloric needs. When caloric needs are not met, the individual may experience unintentional weight loss and even malnutrition in instances of continuous low calorie intake. Adequate intake of vitamins and minerals is also important for many bodily functions. Each individual’s diet varies greatly, so you should first consult your doctor or dietitian before taking any supplements.

Eating a well-balanced, nutritious diet will greatly benefit a patient with Parkinson's disease so he can have more energy and his medications will work properly.

There are seven basic tips of having a proper diet in Parkinson's disease, namely:

1. Eat a variety of foods from each food category (carbohydrates, protein, fat) based on the food pyramid. It is recommended that 55 to 60 percent of the calories in your diet come from carbohydrates but moderate your intake of sugars. Fat intake should be no more than 30 percent of your total calories and should be low in saturated fat and cholesterol.

2. Include high-fiber foods such as vegetables, cooked dried peas and beans (legumes), whole-grain foods, bran, cereals, pasta, rice, and fresh fruit in your diet. Dietary fiber prevents constipation by adding bulk and softness to stools. To ensure adequate fiber intake, try to eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day, and choose whole grains over refined foods.

3. Ask your doctor if there is a need for a daily vitamin supplement. Both Vitamin C and E are easily consumed in the diet in the recommended amounts per day so supplementation in mega doses is not warranted. Depending on your individual diet, a multi-vitamin formulation or supplement may be beneficial.

4. Ask your doctor about the need for mineral supplements. People with Parkinson’s disease have an increased risk of bone loss and should be sure their diet isn’t deficient in calcium. If you find it hard to get enough calcium in your diet, you may want to consider a supplement. Calcium carbonate is the most commonly used supplement but it reduces stomach acid, which can interfere with nutrient absorption and can also cause constipation for some people. Calcium citrate is a better choice because it doesn’t affect stomach acidity and isn’t constipating. Iron supplements can interfere with Levodopa absorption, so they should be taken separately but the small amount of iron in a standard multivitamin preparation won't be a problem.

5. Limit your salt intake and drink eight or more glasses of liquid each day. However, those PD patients with concommittant heart problems may need to limit their fluids so it is better to seek advice from your doctor.

6. Ask your doctor about your ideal body weight and how many calories you should consume each day. Weigh yourself once or twice a week, unless your doctor recommends weighing yourself more often. If you are taking diuretics or steroids, such as prednisone, you should weigh yourself daily.If you have an unexplained weight gain or loss (2 pounds in one day or 5 pounds in one week), contact your doctor. He or she may want to modify your food or fluid intake to help manage your condition.

7. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages since alcohol may interfere with some of your medications. Limit caffeine (contained in coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate) because it may also interfere with some of your medications and may actually make you more dehydrated.

REFERENCES:
1.http://blog.michaeljfox.org/2012/03/ask-the-md-is-there-a-diet-recommended-for-parkinsons-disease/

2. http://www.webmd.com/parkinsons-disease/guide/eating-right

3. Jenny E. Loew, MS, RD, CSN, LDN and Carol Pratt , LDN. Good Nutrition and Parkinson's Disease (American Parkinson Disease Association, Inc)Copyright 2005 Revised 2007

OPTIMISM, THE FIRST OF WAY TO BEAT PARKINSON'S DISEASE

Through the words of the Holy Bible, the Greatest Book ever written in the world, you will find the answer to your greatest need, the miracle of healing in THE FIRST OF 26 WAYS to BEAT Parkinson's disease.

ADOPT A POSITIVE ATTITUDE

"Natures Beauty"
From an original painted with the foot by S. Subadri

 " Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat [or drink], or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are not you more important than they? Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span?... Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself."
  
                                                                                                      MATTHEW 6: 22-27, 34

Michael J. Fox has Parkinson's disease but he did not allow his PD to affect his attitude in life. Aside from being a good and well loved actor, he also became a #1 bestselling author. He wrote his second book "Always Looking Up: The Adventures of an Incurable Optimist" as a testimony to his positive outlook. In this book, he writes about the personal philosophy that has helped him breakthrough his darkest hours. He also discussed his experiences with others who have emerged from difficult periods with the same shared optimism.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8lsjfjgAA8&feature=player_embedded#!

Fox has appeared in several shows and has been interviewed by big celebrities like Oprah Winfrey and even famous news broadcasters. He has explained that despite suffering from PD, he still makes TV appearances. Parkinson's disease did not stop him from living his life and fulfilling his advocacy. He also has been married to Tracy Pollen for most of his life fighting PD and she has been his rock. His wife said that when Fox was diagnosed with PD, it has changed him from being a workaholic to someone who has more time to spend with her and with their children and valued that time, too. Fox also pointed out how their relationship has grown stronger because of Parkinson’s disease.

Look at being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease or PD as a gift or a blessing. It will serve as an eyeopener. You will finally face the truth that you have been living your life for the past years or even decades without any real purpose. Find your passion. Before PD, your worries are all superficial and fleeting like what dress to wear or shoes to buy, when to get a new car or buy the latest gadget.  You may have been planning for a great future for your family but you hardly spend time with them. You never enjoyed watching the sunrise or even the sunset. You've never had a real vacation because you always think that it is a waste of time. You've never slowed down and have joined the rat race so afraid that you would lose your esteemed position, power and even money at any moment that you slacken your pace. It has taken the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease to wake you up that you're taking on too much to handle and perhaps taking a lot of other things for granted, too. Now is the time to savor the tranquility of your surroundings, smell the flowers, walk the dog and spend more time with your family. Start to live for the moment rather than worry about tomorrow.

4 WAYS FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE

Healing of any illness like Parkinson's disease or PD is possible through G-MEN (GOD, MEDICINE, EXERCISE and NUTRITION).

"I urge you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, your spiritual worship. Do not conform yourself to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect...Let love be sincere; hate what is evil, hold on to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; anticipate one another in showing honor. Do not grow slack in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, endure in affliction, persevere in prayer."      

                                                                     
                                                                                 ROMANS 12: 1-2, 9-12

1. ADOPT A POSITIVE ATTITUDE IN LIFE

 " Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat [or drink], or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are not you more important than they? Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span?... Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself."

                                                                               

                                                                                 MATTHEW 6: 22-27, 34

Look at your illness as a gift or a blessing. It will open your eyes to the truth that you have been living your life for the past years without any real sense of direction. You're always worried about paying the bills, wondering what to wear, organizing an event or planning a great future for your family that you never really stopped and enjoyed the beauty of creation around you. You've always been busy and never slackened your pace even if your body has already shown signs of exhaustion. Perhaps, you might have had a near fatal accident but it didn't slow you down but only made you more careful. It has taken the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease to wake you up that you're taking on too much to handle and perhaps taking a lot of other things for granted, too. Now is the time to savor the tranquility of your surroundings, smell the flowers, walk the dog and spend more time with your family. Start to live for the moment rather than worry about tomorrow.

2. ACCEPT THE DOCTOR'S ROLE

"Hold the physician in honor, for he is essential to you, and God it was who established his profession. From God, the doctor has his wisdom...His knowledge makes the doctor distinguished...God makes the earth yield healing herbs which the prudent man should not neglect...He endows men with knowledge to glory in his mighty works, Through which the doctor eases pain and the druggists prepares his medicines;...My son when you are ill, delay not, but pray to God, who will heal you;...Then give the doctor his place, lest he leave, for you need him too. There are times that give him an advantage, and he too beseeches God That his diagnosis may be correct and his treatment bring about  a cure."
                            
                                                                         SIRACH 38: 1-4, 6-7,9, 12-14

Parkinson’s Disease is a disease that mostly affects middle-aged and elderly people characterized by a hallmark of four cardinal symptoms, namely, resting tremors, postural instability, muscle rigidity and slow movement (RPMS). For those who developed the onset of PD between 21-40 years old, you have what is termed the Young-Onset Parkinson's Disease (YOPD).

You may have overlooked the early signs and symptoms because they are subtle and the progression of the disease is gradual or typically slow. PD is both chronic and progressive. It may persist over a long period of time and the symptoms grow worse over time. Its definite cause has not been identified. It is probably multifactorial but the following factors have been implicated like hereditary predisposition or genetics, environmental toxins, aging, infectious diseases (meningitis), head trauma (boxing)and drugs.

Your physician will give a diagnosis of PD based on several factors such as signs and symptoms, your medical history, physical examination, and a thorough neurological evaluation. He will refer you to a neurologist or movement disorder specialist who will perform a comprehensive overview of the major non-motor complications that are often associated with Parkinson's disease, which includes cognitive impairment, dementia, psychosis, depression, fatigue, sleep disturbances, constipation, sexual dysfunction and vision disturbances.

There is no definite cure for Parkinson’s at present. The first line of treatment of Parkinson's disease is still medical like intake of levodopa which provides the dopamine, the neurotransmitter lacking in PD. Surgical treatment of PD has been reserved only for patients with both severe motor impairment from PD and motor complications in the form of fluctuations and dyskinesias. Your physician will present the appropriate management for you and it will be up to you to choose. Aside from the standard treatments, there may be other treatment options available to you like the complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) that you can discuss with your neurologist which will be critical to better control your symptoms and preserve  your overall functional capacity and quality of life.

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BREAKTHROUGH PARKINSON'S DISEASE A.S.A.P.2

April is the international month for Parkinson's Disease or PD. How do you deal with having an illness like PARKINSON'S DISEASE or PD, especially if you're still young and agile as Michael J. Fox, the famous star of the movie, "Back to the Future" series? It would not be easy having your life completely affected and altered by the disease that would hamper your movement, speech and even memory.

You may have gone through it in A.S.A.P2., not just as soon as possible, but through ANGER, SORROW, ACCEPTANCE, PEACE AND PRAYER.

ANGER

        " My own utterance I will not restrain; I will speak in the anguish of my spirit; I will complain in the bitterness Of my soul. Am I the sea, or a monster of the deep, that you place a watch over me? Why have you set me up as an object of attack; or why should I be a target for you? When I say, " My bed shall comfort me, my couch shall ease my complaint," Then you affright me with dreams and with visions terrrify me, so that I should prefer choking and death rather than pains."

                                                                                                       JOB 7: 11-15

      

When was your revelation time? Did you just wake up one morning noticing that your right hand is shaking at rest? You could hardly hold a cup of coffee without worrying that the hot liquid will spill on your fingers and scald you. It was totally unexpected and shocking! You had to summon all your will power to act normal and unaffected as you went through your daily routine of driving from your house to your private office. You went through the day's tasks and attended every meeting and couldn't wait to go home and pondered on your discovery. Maybe your first thought was ANGER. You shed tears of frustration because you've got the feeling that the resting tremors were not just due to lack of sleep or exhaustion. Perhaps you asked God why it had to happen when you've just been getting close to Him. Or maybe you've also decided to serve in a ministry and finally adopted a healthy lifestyle by eating healthy and exercising.

Read more: http://pinoyparkinsonsdisease.blogspot.com

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HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU SPEECH THERAPY (LSVT)

In a study by Kleinow. et. al, in 2001, about 75 -100% of patients with Parkinson's disease develop speech and voice problems. Significant respiratory difficulties and bowed vocal chords have been cited as causes of these voice symptoms. Boone and MacFarlane described these speech and voice changes as hypokinetic dysarthria characterized as reduced loudness, breathy voice, monotonous pitch, intermittent rapid rushes of speech and soft production of consonants.

Based on the above observations, the most effective approach to voice therapy has been to exaggerate one component of speech to improve all other components like loudness, voice, quality, pitch, and rate. All these components have been formalized into the LSVT (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment).

The LSVT program is the first speech therapy program supported by short and long-term efficacy studies that document increased functional communication. The researches have been funded by the National Institutes of Health and the National Institute for Deafness and other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) in the United States of America.

The three components of the LSVT program are the following:

1. Enhancing the vocal source (adduction)

2. Using phonation as a trigger to increase effort and coordination through stimulating the “loud” global variable (respiratory support)

3. Retraining sensory processing during the speech production (increasing fundamental frequency range)

LSVT also involves a 1 hour therapy sessions/4 times a week/1month so that a patient receives 13-16 hours of individual therapy.

The 5 essential concepts of the LSVT program are as follows:

1. Voice

  A. Improving vocal fold adduction

  B. Maximum impact on intelligibility

  C. Immediate reinforcement

  D. “THINK LOUD / THINK SHOUT”

2. High Effort

  A. Patient Rationale

     Overrides rigidity and hypokinesia by pushing patients to new effort levels

     Trains new target by putting the “load on the larynx”

     Dealing with a progressive neurological disease

 B. Clinician Rationale

     Clinician effort equals patient effort

     Lack of affect and physical condition of patient

     Tendency to be reactive

3.Intensive Treatment

  A. Daily opportunity to practice increases the chance of “building daily increments of vocal effort”

  B. Maintain motivation and accountability

  C. Maximize habituation and carry over

  D. Provides an opportunity for clinician to see patient’s daily fluctuations

4.Calibration

   A. The patient knows and accepts the amount of effort needed to consistently increase loudness that is within normal limits so he will use louder voice automatically

   B.  Problem scaling amplitude of motor output related to voice

   C. Need to have “knowledge of results”

   D. Convince patient that loud/strong voice is within normal limits

   E.Habituation and carryover

5.Quantification

  A. The key to motivate patient and provide feedback

  B. Objective methods to document improvement

  C. Precious speech treatment Ineffective/document efficacy

  D. Reimbursement/referrals/ethics

The hierarchy of activities or the speech production tasks would progress from words in week 1 to phrases in week 2 to reading aloud in week 3 and finally, conversation in week 4.

The limitations of LSVT are as follows:

  A. Treatment dosage may not be possible for those with

      (1) physical limitations,

      (2) geographic barriers,

      (3) or financial reasons

  B. Trained and certified clinicians are not available across the country

  C. Lack of consistent insurance reimbursement may be an obstacle

Presently, only 3-4% of those with Parkinson disease receive speech treatment

References:

1. Boone, B.R. &McFarlane, S.C.  (2000).  The Voice and Voice Therapy  (6th ed.).  Needham Heights, MA:  Ally & Bacon.

2.Kleinow, J., Smith, A., Ramig, L.O. (2001).  Speech motor  stability in IPD:  effects of rate and loudness  manipulations.  Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, 44, 1041-51.

3. National Parkinson Foundation. (n.d.).  Speech and voice problems in individuals with Parkinson disease. Retrieved March 30, 2003 from http://www.parkinson.org/voice.htm

HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU YOGA

Yoga is a 5000 year old practice which involves the physical, mental and spiritual discipline originating in ancient India. The goal of yoga, or of the person practicing yoga, is to achieve a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility. It is associated with meditative practices in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.

Within Hindu philosophy, the word yoga is used to refer to one of the six orthodox (āstika) schools of Hindu philosophy. Yoga in this sense is based on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and is also known as Rāja Yoga to distinguish it from later schools. Patanjali's system is discussed and elaborated upon in many classical Hindu texts, and has also been influential in Buddhism and Jainism. The Bhagavadgita introduces distinctions such as Jnana Yoga ("yoga based on knowledge") vs. Karma Yoga ("yoga based on action"). Other systems of philosophy introduced in Hinduism during the medieval period are Bhakti Yoga, and Hatha Yoga.

Yoga (Devanagari:योगा) ) is also a term for a range of traditional systems of physical exercise and meditation in Hinduism.

Modified versions of the physical exercises in Hatha Yoga have become popular as a kind of low-impact physical exercise, and are used for therapeutic purposes. "Yoga" in this sense, in common parlance, refers to the physical exercises, i.e. the asanas or postures. Aspects of meditation are sometimes also included.

Both the meditative and the exercise components of yoga show promise for non-specific health benefits. According to an article in the Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine, the system of Hatha Yoga believes that prana, or healing "life energy" is absorbed into the body through the breath, and can treat a wide variety of illnesses and complaints.

Yoga has also been studied as an intervention for many conditions, including back pain, stress, and depression. A survey released in December 2008 by the US National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that yoga was the 6th most commonly used alternative therapy in the United States during 2007, with 6.1 percent of the population participating. The physical asana of Hatha Yoga have a tradition that goes back to the 15th century, but they were not widely practiced in India prior to the early 20th century. Hatha Yoga was advocated by a number of late 19th to early 20th century gurus in India, including Sri Krishnamacharya in south India, Swami Sivananda in the north, Sri Yogendra in Bombay, and Swami Kuvalyananda in Lonavala.

In the 1960s, western interest in Hindu spirituality reached its peak, giving rise to a great number of Neo-Hindu schools specifically advocated to a western public. Among the teachers of Hatha yoga who were active in the west in this period were B.K.S. Iyengar, K. Pattabhi Jois, and Swami Vishnu-devananda, and Swami Satchidananda.  A second "yoga boom" followed in the 1980s, as Dean Ornish, a follower of Swami Satchidananda, connected yoga to heart health, legitimizing yoga as a purely physical system of health exercises outside of counter culture or esotericism circles, and unconnected to a religious denomination.

Since then, yoga has been used as supplementary therapy for diverse conditions such as cancer, diabetes, asthma, and AIDS. The scope of medical issues where yoga is used as a complementary therapy continues to grow including Parkinson's disease. This can be demostrated in the recently concluded First Annual Convention of Pinoy Parkinson's Disease (Pinoy PD) in Makati City, Philippines last October 22, 2011.

There are many different styles and disciplines and people practice yoga for a variety of reasons. One of the main goals of yoga is to improve overall well-being through teaching discipline and self-regulation. Recently, research has focused on the healing properties of yoga and how it relates to positive psychology. Researchers wonder what psychological advantages it can afford, in addition to the previously discovered physical benefits. Yoga has proven to offer different and multiple benefits for individuals ranging from consciousness of one's body and its capabilities, satisfaction from challenging oneself physically, and increased energy and mental clarity and concentration. While the topic is still somewhat new and some research is still preliminary, results have shown significant improvements in both physical and mental health among a variety of subjects in various circumstances.

The practice of yoga traditionally includes both meditation and exercise, but in the West the focus is mainly on exercise. The more classical approaches, such as Iyengar Yoga, move at a more deliberate pace, emphasize proper alignment and execution, hold asanas for a longer time. They aim to gradually improve flexibility, balance, and strength. Other approaches, such as Ashtanga or Power Yoga, shift between asanas quickly and energetically. And more recently, contemporary approaches to yoga have developed [(such as Scaravelli inspired, as taught by the likes of Diane Long, Sophie Hoare and Marc Woolford )], inviting students to become their own authority in yoga practice by offering principle based approaches to yoga that can be applied to any form.

Nearly all types of yoga practices include asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), and savasanas (relaxation techniques).

                                                                            Emily Slonina

In a book by Emily Slonina, "Anywhere, Anytime and Any Body Yoga", she discussed the simple yoga principles that one can use and incoporate in everyday ordinary activity like sitting in a chair, working at the office, lying on the bed, traveling, standing and even doing household chores. For someone too busy or with limited agility or flexibilty, the book has been designed as a practical guide that one can utilize without taking too much time, planning and effort. Breathing exercises, anytime neck and shoulder de-stressers, warm-ups, chair yoga poses like sun and moon salutation and relaxation-meditation are presented complete with instructions and illustrations. Even the models Ms. Slonina used in her book are not the typical folks but are differently-abled.

THE FIRST PINOY PD CONVENTION, A SUCCESS!

The first annual convention of the Pinoy Parkinson's Disease (Pinoy PD) on Healing of Parkinson's Disease thru G-MEN (God, Medicine, Exercise and Nutrition) has been successfully launched last October 22, 2011 at the Multi-purpose Hall, Paseo Parkview Suites, Makati City. It was also the Feast Day of Blessed John Paul II.

Father Joey Paras, SDB, officiated the Thanksgiving Mass with Miss Rowena Bicaldo as Lector while the trio of Eufe and Mary Rose Tantia and Marie Ness Cabahug led the choir.  In his homily, Fr. Paras emphasized the virtues of Blessed John Paul II and the latter's love for the Blessed Virgin Mary. He said that the family and the caregivers of those with Parkinson's disease were in a privileged position because they can see the face of Jesus everyday in the face of those suffering from PD.

His Excellency, Most Reverend Patricio A. Buzon, SDB, and Chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Health Care conveyed his inspirational message from the Diocese of Kabankalan, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental. He stated that the healing of Parkinson's disease resides in God and in Man. "God is the source of life. Life is a gift from above. Man is also another source of healing. Life is also a responsibility. We have our own part to play for healing to happen. The human counterpart of healing is thru MEN - Medicine, Exercise and Nutrition. Do your part and God will do His."

Brother Michael Angelo F. Lobrin gave an animated talk on Spiritual Healing of Parkinson's Disease. He is a graduate of Bachelor of Arts, Major in Classical Philosophy in San Carlos Seminary Guadalupe. He has obtained units in Master of Arts in Theology from the same institution.  He was a professor of Theology at the De La Salle University, Manila Doctors College and St. Paul University, Quezon City.  He is currently a professor of Philosophy at the Entrepreneur School of Asia in Quezon City and serves as Adviser for Religious Affairs to a number of local and national politicians.  Brother Michael is – in more ways than one – a prolific and sought-after inspirational speaker.  He is also the best selling author of “Laugh with God Today!”

After his talk, Brother Michael Angelo prayed over those with Parkinson's disease. He also loaned the relic of Blessed John Paul II so the participants of the convention can touch it after reciting the "Prayer for Healing of Parkinson's Disease through the Intercession of Blessed John Paul II.

Read more ....www.pinoyparkinsonsdisease.blogspot.com

NOVENA PRAYER FOR THE HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE (DAY 9)

Day 9 (October 22, Saturday) SELF-CONTROL 


Only You alone can save me, Lord, so we sing this praise and worship song:

God, the Holy Spirit, may we be models of good deeds in every respect by being temperate, dignified, self-controlled and sound in faith, love and endurance. May we control our temper and hold our tongue when we are at the end of our tethers, especially when we grow impatient and feel pain.  May we be like Blessed John Paul II who was a model of self control, dignity and unceasing faith.

PRAYER FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE

 THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED JOHN PAUL II

When my legs are frozen in place,

May God the Father push me and remind me

To lift my toes up and swing my arms

That I may walk again and not be afraid.

When I feel like falling or as my posture stoops,

May Jesus Christ, God the Son, break my fall

And catch me as I move forward

With my legs braced and feet wide apart.

When my movement is slow and I hesitate,

May God the Holy Spirit enlighten my path,

Broaden my horizon and show me the way

That I will be more agile and sure in my steps and bearing.

When my hands and feet are shaking, or my chin trembles,

And my voice weakens as I speak,

May Mother Mary embrace me to calm me and assure me

That everything will be okay and I can rest in her arms and wait

Until everything is still and steady and I am in peace

As my voice grows strong and clear.

Forgive me, God the Father, for all my sins

Heal me, God the Son, from my Parkinson’s disease

Bless me, God the Holy Spirit, with wisdom and knowledge

Love me, Mother Mary, so that I can love and serve others despite my PD.

We ask all these, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.

Amen.

Our Father…

Hail Mary…

Glory Be…

Blessed John Paul II, Pray for us.

NOVENA PRAYER FOR THE HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE (DAY 8)

Day 8 (October 21, Friday) HUMILITY

" Pride and the power of sin have made it difficult for many people to speak their 'mother tongue'. In order to sing God's praoses aw must re-learn the language of humility and trust, the language of moral integrity and of sincere commitment to all that us truly good in the sight of the Lord."
                                                   Pope John Paull II
                                                   Evening Prayer at St. Louis Cathedral, St. Louis, USA
                                                   January 27, 1999

I bow before You, Lord. In all humility, I offer my life to you through this song of praise and worship:

Lord, Jesus Christ, give me a humble heart so that I can respond to Your call to be Your disciple. I will strive to preserve the unity in my household through peace and understanding. Through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II, may You grant me the gift of healing that I implore.

PRAYER FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE

 THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED JOHN PAUL II

When my legs are frozen in place,

May God the Father push me and remind me

To lift my toes up and swing my arms

That I may walk again and not be afraid.

When I feel like falling or as my posture stoops,

May Jesus Christ, God the Son, break my fall

And catch me as I move forward

With my legs braced and feet wide apart.

When my movement is slow and I hesitate,

May God the Holy Spirit enlighten my path,

Broaden my horizon and show me the way

That I will be more agile and sure in my steps and bearing.

When my hands and feet are shaking, or my chin trembles,

And my voice weakens as I speak,

May Mother Mary embrace me to calm me and assure me

That everything will be okay and I can rest in her arms and wait

Until everything is still and steady and I am in peace

As my voice grows strong and clear.

Forgive me, God the Father, for all my sins

Heal me, God the Son, from my Parkinson’s disease

Bless me, God the Holy Spirit, with wisdom and knowledge

Love me, Mother Mary, so that I can love and serve others despite my PD.

We ask all these, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.

Amen.

Our Father…

Hail Mary…

Glory Be…

Blessed John Paul II, Pray for us.