Parkinson's Disease Treatments NYC - Dr. John Salerno

Treatment for Parkinson’s by Salerno Wellness in Manhattan, NY, and Connecticut

I know how life-altering a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease can be. It can interfere with everything from your daily tasks to your overall well-being. The symptoms you are experiencing are often frustrating and can even be depressing, not just for you but for your loved ones as well. I have over 30 years of experience finding root causes of your symptoms and helping to create a customized plan just for you, with the use of complementary, functional and integrative treatments to bring you back to health and help you enjoy life again.

-Dr. John Salerno

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects dopamine-producing neurons in a specific area of the brain called the substantia nigra. This loss of dopamine, a chemical messenger crucial for controlling movement, leads to the characteristic motor symptoms associated with the condition. As the disease advances, the brain's ability to coordinate and regulate body movements diminishes, resulting in increased physical challenges. While it is most known for its impact on motor function, Parkinson’s also presents a wide range of non-motor symptoms that can significantly affect a person's daily life.

The progression and severity of these symptoms can vary greatly from one individual to another. Researchers are actively studying the complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors that contribute to its development. The condition is not just a movement disorder but a complex systemic illness that impacts multiple bodily functions. Understanding its multifaceted nature is the first step toward a comprehensive and effective treatment strategy.

Common Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease

The signs of Parkinson’s Disease extend far beyond the commonly known tremor, encompassing a wide array of motor and non-motor challenges. These symptoms often begin subtly and can be mistaken for normal signs of aging, gradually worsening over time. Recognizing this full spectrum of symptoms is critical for a comprehensive approach to managing the condition and enhancing daily function.

• Tremor: This often starts as a slight shaking or trembling in a limb, most commonly in a hand or fingers, especially at rest. This "pill-rolling" tremor, where the thumb and forefinger rub together, can become more pronounced over time and may eventually affect both sides of the body.

• Bradykinesia (Slowness of Movement): This symptom can make simple, routine tasks difficult and time-consuming, as it reduces the ability to initiate and execute voluntary movements. It can manifest as a shuffling walk, a mask-like facial expression, or difficulty getting up from a chair, significantly impacting independence.

• Rigidity: Muscle stiffness can occur in any part of the body, leading to a limited range of motion and causing pain or discomfort. This rigidity is often what makes movement feel so effortful and can contribute to the stooped posture seen in some individuals.

• Postural Instability and Balance Problems: As Parkinson's progresses, it can affect the reflexes needed to maintain an upright posture, leading to problems with balance and an increased risk of falls. Individuals may develop a tendency to sway backward or forward, making walking and turning feel unsafe.

• Gait Changes and Freezing: A common issue is a shuffling gait with short, hesitant steps, which can make walking difficult. "Freezing" of gait is a temporary, involuntary inability to move, often occurring when starting to walk, turning, or navigating tight spaces.

• Non-Motor Symptoms: These are incredibly common and can be just as disabling as motor symptoms. They include sleep disturbances like REM sleep behavior disorder, chronic constipation, depression, anxiety, significant fatigue, and cognitive changes ranging from brain fog to dementia. Autonomic dysfunction can also occur, leading to issues like drops in blood pressure upon standing (orthostatic hypotension), which causes dizziness.

Parkinson's Disease Common Causes

The exact cause of Parkinson's disease remains unknown, but it is believed to result from a complex interaction of genetic predispositions and environmental factors. For a small percentage of individuals, specific genetic mutations have been directly linked to the development of the condition. However, for the vast majority, the cause is multifactorial, involving a combination of influences that trigger the neurodegenerative process. Environmental exposures to toxins like pesticides, certain solvents, and heavy metals have been associated with an increased risk of health issues.

The natural aging process itself is a primary risk factor, as the incidence of Parkinson's rises significantly with age. At a cellular level, mitochondrial dysfunction, which impairs the energy production within neurons, and oxidative stress, an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants, are considered key mechanisms of cell damage. Emerging research also highlights the importance of the gut-brain axis, suggesting that the health of the gut microbiome and neuroinflammation may play a crucial role in initiating or accelerating the disease process.

Related Medical Conditions That Can Be Treated at Salerno Wellness

Many individuals with Parkinson’s disease also experience other health issues that can be managed with a comprehensive, integrative approach. These related conditions often contribute significantly to a person's overall disability and reduced quality of life. By addressing these coexisting problems, we can often achieve a notable improvement in daily well-being.

• Essential Tremor: This is a nervous system disorder that causes involuntary, rhythmic shaking, which can be mistaken for or coexist with Parkinson's. While distinct, addressing underlying neurological imbalances can help manage the severity of both types of tremors.

• REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD): This condition involves acting out vivid dreams with physical movements and vocal sounds during REM sleep. RBD is a strong predictor for the future development of Parkinson's and can be addressed with targeted therapies to improve sleep quality and safety.

• Autonomic Dysfunction: This involves the malfunction of the autonomic nervous system, leading to issues like orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing), constipation, and urinary problems. Supporting the autonomic system can help stabilize blood pressure and improve digestive and bladder function.

• Depression and Anxiety: These mood disorders are extremely common in Parkinson's, stemming from both the brain chemistry changes and the psychological stress of living with a chronic illness. An integrative plan can support neurotransmitter balance and provide coping strategies to improve mental health.

• Constipation and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Gut motility is often severely impaired in Parkinson's, leading to chronic constipation and symptoms of IBS. Restoring gut health through diet, probiotics, and other targeted therapies is a cornerstone of functional treatment.

• Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): Problems with thinking, memory, and planning are common and can progress over time. Brain-supportive nutrients, detoxification, and lifestyle strategies can help protect cognitive function and slow its decline.

• Chronic Fatigue: A profound sense of exhaustion that is not relieved by rest is a frequent and disabling non-motor symptom. Addressing mitochondrial health, nutrient deficiencies, and inflammation can significantly boost energy levels.

• Heavy Metal Toxicity: Exposure to heavy metals like lead, mercury, or manganese is a known risk factor for neurodegeneration. Identifying and safely reducing the body's toxic burden can be a critical step in a holistic treatment plan.

Types of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson's is not a single, uniform disease but a spectrum of related disorders with different causes, symptoms, and progressions. Proper classification is essential for creating a targeted and effective treatment plan.

• Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease: This is the most common form, accounting for the vast majority of cases. "Idiopathic" means the exact cause is unknown, though it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

• Young-Onset Parkinson's Disease (YOPD): This refers to cases where symptoms begin before the age of 50. Individuals with YOPD may experience a slower disease progression and are more likely to have a genetic link.

• Genetic (or Familial) Parkinson's Disease: In these cases, specific gene mutations (such as LRRK2, PARKIN, PINK1, or GBA) are known to cause the disease. This form can be passed down through families, though having a gene does not guarantee one will develop Parkinson's.

• Atypical Parkinsonism (or Parkinson's Plus Syndromes): These are a group of neurodegenerative disorders that have some Parkinsonian symptoms but also include other significant features. Examples include Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), and Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD), which often progress more rapidly and respond poorly to standard Parkinson's medication.

• Vascular Parkinsonism: This type is caused by one or more small strokes in the part of the brain that controls movement. Symptoms are often more prominent in the lower body, leading to gait and balance problems rather than the classic tremor.

• Drug-Induced Parkinsonism: Certain medications, particularly those that block dopamine receptors (like some antipsychotics and anti-nausea drugs), can cause symptoms that mimic Parkinson's. These symptoms can often be reversed if the offending medication is stopped.



• Tremor-Dominant vs. Akinetic-Rigid Subtypes: Idiopathic Parkinson's is often categorized based on the primary symptoms. Tremor-dominant patients primarily experience tremors, while those with the akinetic-rigid subtype suffer more from slowness, stiffness, and gait problems, which can sometimes indicate a faster progression.

My practice is designed for those who wish to be active partners in their own health and are open to exploring diet, lifestyle, and advanced nutrient therapies. The evaluation process begins with a deep dive into your medical history, symptoms, and previous treatments. We utilize advanced functional testing to uncover underlying issues like inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and toxic exposures. This detailed assessment allows me to construct a highly personalized protocol that complements your existing neurological care. The goal is to improve your body's overall function, enhance your resilience, and improve your quality of life.

How Conventional Medicine Treats Parkinson’s Disease

Conventional medical treatment for Parkinson's disease primarily focuses on managing motor symptoms by replenishing or mimicking dopamine in the brain. The gold standard medication is Levodopa, often combined with Carbidopa, which helps more of the drug reach the brain to be converted into dopamine. Dopamine agonists are another class of drugs that directly stimulate dopamine receptors, tricking the brain into thinking it has enough. Other medications include MAO-B inhibitors and COMT inhibitors, which prevent the breakdown of dopamine, thereby prolonging its effect. For tremors, anticholinergics or amantadine may be used.

While these medications can be highly effective, especially in the early stages, their benefits can wane over time, and they can cause significant side effects, including nausea, dyskinesia (involuntary movements), and impulse control disorders. For patients with advanced disease who no longer respond well to medication, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)—a surgical procedure to implant electrodes in the brain—may be an option. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy are also crucial components of standard care to help maintain function, mobility, and communication.

How Dr. John Salerno Treats Parkinson’s Disease

My approach to Parkinson's Disease is designed to complement the care you receive from your neurologist, focusing on the underlying biological processes that drive neurodegeneration. We begin by implementing personalized nutritional and anti-inflammatory protocols to reduce the systemic burden on your body. A key focus is on supporting mitochondrial health with targeted nutrients like Coenzyme Q10, NAC, and a full spectrum of B-complex vitamins to fuel cellular energy. I also employ evidence-based detoxification strategies to safely reduce the body’s burden of heavy metals and environmental toxins that are linked to neurological damage.

We work to restore gut health and the integrity of the gut-brain axis, which is now understood to be a critical factor in the disease process. Customized IV nutrient therapy is utilized to deliver high-dose vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants directly into the bloodstream for maximum absorption and effect. Depending on the individual's case, we may consider personalized peptide or bioregulatory therapies to support cellular repair and function. All of these functional medicine strategies are integrated with mind-body therapies and are carefully coordinated with your existing medication regimen.

Possible Side Effects of Treatment

Both conventional and integrative treatments for Parkinson's Disease come with potential side effects that require careful management. Conventional medications like Levodopa can cause nausea, dizziness, and, over time, may lead to motor fluctuations and dyskinesia, which are uncontrolled, involuntary movements. Other drugs, such as dopamine agonists, carry risks of hallucinations, sleepiness, and impulse control disorders. With my integrative approach, side effects are generally minimal and related to the body's adjustment to new protocols.

For instance, some individuals may experience mild digestive changes when beginning a new diet or probiotic regimen. Detoxification therapies, if not properly managed, can lead to temporary fatigue or flu-like symptoms as the body processes and eliminates toxins. IV nutrient therapy carries a very low risk of site irritation or discomfort. I carefully monitor all patients to mitigate these risks and adjust treatment plans to ensure they are both effective and well-tolerated.

What Can Happen if Parkinson's is Untreated?

If Parkinson's Disease is left untreated or is managed inadequately, it will progressively worsen, leading to a severe decline in motor and non-motor function. Initially, mild tremors and stiffness will progress, leading to significant impairment in walking, balance, and the ability to perform daily activities like dressing and eating. The risk of falls and subsequent injuries, such as hip fractures, increases dramatically, often leading to a loss of independence and a need for full-time care. Non-motor symptoms also escalate, with the potential for severe depression, anxiety, and the development of dementia, which can be profoundly distressing for both patients and their families.

Swallowing difficulties, known as dysphagia, can arise, increasing the risk of aspiration pneumonia, a common and serious complication. Physical immobility can lead to secondary health problems like blood clots, pressure sores, and urinary tract infections. Ultimately, the cumulative impact of these complications severely diminishes quality of life and can shorten life expectancy. Early and comprehensive intervention is crucial to slow this progression.

Parkinson's Patient Case Study

Alice, a 62-year-old retired teacher, came to my practice a year after her Parkinson's diagnosis. She was already on a low dose of conventional medication but was frustrated by its limited effect on her debilitating fatigue, persistent brain fog, and a tremor in her right hand that made her favorite hobby, painting, impossible. Her conventional care was focused solely on her motor symptoms, leaving her feeling hopeless about her overall decline in vitality. After a comprehensive assessment that included advanced testing for heavy metals and gut health, we uncovered a significant burden of environmental toxins and severe gut dysbiosis.

We began a multi-faceted protocol, starting with a targeted diet to reduce inflammation and support her gut microbiome, alongside gentle detoxification support. Alice also started weekly IV nutrient therapy sessions, rich in glutathione, B-vitamins, and mitochondrial-supportive nutrients. Within three months, she reported a noticeable increase in her energy levels and mental clarity. By the six-month mark, her hand tremor had subjectively reduced in intensity, allowing her to paint for short periods again. While her Parkinson's is not cured, this integrative approach, in conjunction with her standard neurological care, has dramatically improved her functional capacity and restored her sense of hope and well-being.

Why Patients Choose Dr. John Salerno

Patients choose me because they are looking for a physician who sees them as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. With over 30 years of experience in functional and integrative medicine, I have dedicated my career to identifying and treating the root causes of chronic illness. My approach to Parkinson's Disease goes beyond symptom management, aiming to support the body’s innate healing capabilities. I provide highly individualized care, creating unique treatment plans based on advanced diagnostic testing and a deep understanding of each patient's biochemistry.

This personalized strategy stands in contrast to one-size-fits-all protocols. Patients appreciate the collaborative partnership we form, working together to optimize their health. They value the hope and empowerment that come from a proactive plan that addresses diet, lifestyle, and targeted therapies. My expertise in both conventional and complementary medicine allows me to safely integrate my protocols with a patient's existing neurological care. With offices in both Manhattan, NY, and Connecticut, I offer accessible, expert care to those ready to take control of their health journey.

Additional References

• Parkinson's Disease - National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
• Parkinson's Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments - National Institute on Aging (NIA)