We are both aging and we both have health issues including aches and pain. His may be related to his diagnosis, mine may also be related to his diagnosis as I am being asked to do more around the house and in caring for him. His regular regime of carbidopa-levodopa may alleviate some stiffness, it doesn’t alleviate pain, so we are looking at options for him. At the same time, I have developed an issue with one shoulder, not sure why, and am looking for relief there too. My sister and a good friend swear by acupuncture, and I am wondering whether it might be good for us. At the same time, I have friends who find relief with CBD oil. Perhaps we need to give that a try?

Before I suggest any “trials” for either of us, I want to do my research. I know the internet is only as good as the sites I visit so I always stick to the ones affiliated with well-known sources. I like to look at WebMD, the Mayo clinic, the National Institute of Health, and of course my basics for his situation, Michael J. Fox, Davis Phinney, The Parkinson’s Foundation and American Parkinson’s Disease Association. I feel that I can trust what I read on their sites because they are based in proven scientific research. If research doesn’t exist, as can be the case sometimes, that is clearly stated along with the reasons why. I appreciate that they strive to provide as much information as they can without bias or judgement.

Once I have done my research, I can sit down and have a conversation with my husband about what I have found and how we should proceed. His diagnosis has not impacted his cognitive skills, thank goodness, and I need to make sure that I listen and respect his input. He is cautious in treatment and never makes changes to his plan without first consulting his medical team, so that would be his next step before making a final decision. We are on a marathon journey with PD so we can take our time to make sure that any interventions he tries are safe and potentially effective. I, on the other hand, will be trying whatever might fix my sore shoulder now. I will consult with my Primary Care Doctor and then proceed with treatment. I have things to do and don’t have the time or patience to wait for it to get better. Watch for updates on healing for both of us in future blogs.