When used safely alongside your prescribed care, adding complementary therapies to your Parkinson’s treatment plan can improve your well-being, ease symptoms, and add social connection. This combined approach is often referred to as integrative medicine. Complementary therapies include exercise, mindfulness, art, music, massage, herbal remedies and supplements. Here are some resources from the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) to get you started:

Complementary therapies 101
APDA’s Rebecca Gilbert, MD, PhD, focused two episodes of her popular webinar series Dr. Gilbert Hosts on complementary therapies. The first episode is a great overview of a wide assortment of therapy options and the second one focuses more on medicinal plants and supplements for PD.

Creative therapies
Art, dance, theater, and singing can help improve mood, movement, and even speech. Learn about art therapy and you check out APDA’s free Sing Loud for PD program —it’s fun, social, and great for your voice! Try your hand(s) at drumming or have some fun with improv!

Movement & mindfulness
Yoga, tai chi, boxing, and meditation are popular among people with PD. Try a free virtual class from APDA’s curated list and see what feels right for you.

Music-based therapies
Music, dance, and singing can help with movement, voice control, and emotional health. Learn more in this APDA blog post.

Acupuncture & massage
Some people find that acupuncture and massage help relieve certain symptoms or simply help them relax. While scientific evidence is limited, risks are generally low. Talk to your doctor about what’s right for you.

Medical marijuana
Curious about whether medical marijuana could help your PD symptoms? Read what we know so far, and be sure to discuss it with your physician before trying anything new.

Remember, no single therapy works for everyone, and nothing should replace your prescribed medical treatment — but many of these approaches can help you feel better, more engaged, and more empowered.