Community Acupuncture with Heart & Hands Health Collective
People with Parkinson’s disease sometimes turn to complementary therapies to help manage their motor symptoms. On Monday, September 9, 2024, Parkinson Wellness Projects (PWP) welcomed Christina Chan, R.Ac., to host Community Acupuncture with the Heart & Hands Collective: an introductory workshop where she shares her expertise on community acupuncture and its benefits on Parkinson’s disease. Below are some highlights from her session:
What is Community Acupuncture?
Community acupuncture is high volume acupuncture provided in a supportive group setting.
At the Heart & Hands Collective, community acupuncture is offered at sliding scale rates - which can vary between $30 to $60 per session. It makes acupuncture an accessible option to a wider range of people who otherwise could not afford the going rate of acupuncture.
Why is it offered in a group setting?
The group setting is a peaceful, non-judgmental, cell phone-free space in which the community can gather together for respite and momentary stillness.
Studies show that being treated in a group has physical and mental benefits. People with Parkinson’s disease use group settings to reduce isolation, ease pain, minimize stress, increase focus and boost mood.
Which Parkinson’s disease symptoms can be treated?
Common motor symptoms, such as:
Tremors.
Bradykinesia.
Muscle and joint rigidity.
Gait and posture imbalance.
Other symptoms can include:
Low mood/motivation.
Insomnia.
Speech changes.
Community acupuncture can also treat non-Parkinson’s-related symptoms, such as:
Musculoskeletal pain.
Digestion issues.
Respiratory issues.
Endocrine issues.
Hormonal issues.
What are some benefits to Community Acupuncture?
Community Acupuncture provides numerous benefits, including:
Being drug-free (no risk of interactions), minimally invasive and traditional.
Holistic - treating the whole person physically-emotionally-spiritually.
Customized treatment for each individual.
Affordability.
Accessibility and greater appointment availability.
Decreases isolation.
When received regularly, many individuals anecdotally report improvements in their symptoms with acupuncture.
Christina’s workshop was an opportunity for our participants and their care partners to learn and practice community acupuncture. Stay up to date with the latest information from PWP events by subscribing to our blog on our website: parkinsonwellness.ca/blog.
As the Owner/Operator and Clinic Director of the Heart & Hands Collective, Christina is passionate about using acupuncture as a tool for positive social change through providing outreach, increasing accessibility and bringing the practice back to its traditional roots.