Acupuncture treatment in a Parkinson's Disease patient with frozen gait

VernacularTitle:すくみ足を主症状とするパーキンソン病患者への鍼治療の１症例
Author: Tsuguo KUSAGAWA ; Tomomi SAKAI ; Norio OHKOSHI
Publication Type:Journal Article
Keywords: Parkinson's Disease; acupuncture; frozen gait; fatigue of legs
From:Journal of the Japan Society of Acupuncture and Moxibustion 2010;60(2):216-224
CountryJapan
Language:Japanese
Abstract: [Objective]This case evaluates the effects of acupuncture for a Parkinson's Disease patient with frozen gait.
[Case]Patient:a 58-year-old male. Chief complaints were frozen gait and fatigue of legs. The gait disturbance was realized about three years ago, and has been gradually worsening. The Hoehn &Yahr stage is III. Treatment:The patient received medication and acupuncture treatment once a week or two for 18 months. Electric acupuncture treatment was adopted on arms and lower legs, and lone needles on the back and legs. Measurements:Outcome measures were timed in a 10 m walk and turn for frozen gait and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for fatigue of legs.
[Results]From a long term point of view, there were no significant changes for the outcomes measured. However just after the treatment VAS was statistically improved, and the patient reported a comfortable feeling.
[Conclusion]The effect of acupuncture for frozen gait was not seen, but the improvement in fatigue of legs was noted, and the patient felt comfortable after the treatment.