Tremors:
When the strength of Cal’s tremors increased enough to interfere with his quality of life. our Primary Neurologist suggested we check out a new device that could possibly help. It was worn on the wrist when the tremors were active to calm them. It was called Cala Trio: Essential Tremor Bracelet – you can be checked it out for yourself at: https://calatrio.com for details. It worked very well for Cal. There was an initial charge and a monthly fee.
Sometimes I would just hold his hand and gently massage his hand, fingers and arm it seems to help some and at least made his muscles relax and helped him feel better. It was like a bit of a distraction even it didn’t always stop or slow down the tremors.
Drooling:
Botox shots: For the cost to be cover by Medicare the shots needed to be scheduled 13 weeks apart.
This was when Cal was having the shots, so probably a good idea to check with your medical insurance and/or Medicare there may have been some changes since Cal’s shots. These shots really helped with Cal’s drooling; he got a reprieve for a few weeks. There was a sweet spot in the middle of the 13 weeks that gave a lot of relief from the constant drooling.
Through the Neurologist office Cal had been a part of a blind study to find out the effectiveness of Botox shots.
Chewing gum: Seemed to help and easy to use and he could choose flavors he liked. It apparently helped Cal to remember to swallow.
Runny Nose:
I recommend LOTS of handkerchiefs about 12” square, 100% cotton (much more absorbent than the permanent-press type) and white (easier to bleach if needed and they are reusable, cheap and don’t fill up landfills. Over time we ended up with 100+. I didn’t have to do the laundry constantly because we ran out. They don’t take up a lot of space in the wash
Muscles tightening up:
Well, Cal’s muscles seem to be fighting him and just wanted to tighten up. He would be sore in many parts of his body, back, shoulders, hands the his toes on his right foot curled up like what Cal’s “Monkey Fist,” his finger would cramp. Our Primary Physician, and MD, of many years asked us if we knew any good Chiropractor that possibly had masseuse that would give Cal a deep muscle massage after his adjustment, under the direction of the Chiropractor on which areas to concentrate on. It just happened that a young couple move in next door to us and they both had their own practice. The husband’s practice had about four masseuse, Cal went in weekly and it really helped Cal’s muscles to stay loose.
Our Primary Doctor and the Chiropractor consulted often to determine Cal’s treatments.
These appointments seem to slow the physical progression of Cal’s Parkinson’s for several years.
-Peg