Parkinson’s Disease and Tremor: A Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective

Tremor and movement disorders can have different underlying causes, and not every patient who experiences tremor presents in exactly the same way. Some people may experience tremors primarily on one side of the body, while others may experience symptoms on both sides.

Parkinson’s disease and stroke are both neurological conditions involving the brain, but they are different disorders with different underlying mechanisms. A stroke, particularly a cerebral infarction, can affect the blood supply to a specific area of the brain and may subsequently lead to weakness, impaired coordination, involuntary movements, or other changes in motor control. Parkinson’s disease, on the other hand, is associated with changes in the brain’s movement-control systems, including reduced dopamine signaling.

For this reason, when a person develops new or changing tremors, it is important to receive an appropriate medical evaluation and diagnosis. Tremor alone does not determine whether someone has Parkinson’s disease, stroke-related movement dysfunction, or another neurological condition.

Looking Beyond the Tremor

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, we do not look only at the tremor itself. We consider the person's overall pattern, including the movement of Qi and Blood, the condition of the body’s internal systems, and the relationship between different meridian systems.

In TCM theory, the Heart governs the Shen (mind and spirit), while the Kidney is closely associated with the Shaoyin system and the body's deeper reserves and vitality. The brain is traditionally described as the “House of the Original Spirit” (元神之府).

When the relationship between the Heart and Kidney is not well balanced, TCM theory considers that the movement and communication of Qi and Blood may become less harmonious. This may be reflected in changes in movement, coordination, strength, balance, or other neurological functions.

For this reason, Shaoyin and Taiyang may become important areas of focus in a TCM treatment approach.

The Relationship Between Shaoyin and Taiyang

In an individualized TCM treatment plan, the Shaoyin system may be supported and nourished, while acupuncture may be used to regulate and open the Taiyang meridians.

The goal is not simply to “stop the tremor.” Instead, the treatment approach focuses on supporting the body's overall balance and promoting the smooth movement of Qi and Blood.

In TCM theory, we may think of this process as helping the body's internal systems become more coordinated and active again.

An Analogy: Restarting an Engine

One way I explain this concept to my patients is by comparing the body to an engine.

Imagine a vehicle that has stalled.

Sometimes the engine does not need to be completely replaced. It may need the right conditions and a little assistance to start moving again.

In this analogy:

Shaoyin is like the oil within the engine.

It represents the deeper nourishment and resources needed to support the body's vitality.

Taiyang is like the air that allows the engine to function.

Through acupuncture, we work with the Taiyang meridians to help promote the movement of Qi and Blood throughout the body.

The interaction between Shaoyin and Taiyang can therefore be viewed, from a TCM perspective, as part of the body's ongoing rhythm of nourishment, movement, circulation, and vitality.

The purpose of this approach is not to claim that acupuncture can replace neurological treatment or reverse a neurological disease. Rather, it is to support the individual's overall condition and address the patterns that TCM identifies as contributing to their symptoms.

A Whole-Person Approach

Every patient is different. Two people may have similar tremors but very different underlying patterns from a TCM perspective. One person may require more emphasis on nourishment and restoration, while another may require greater attention to the movement of Qi and Blood or the regulation of specific meridian systems.

For this reason, TCM treatment is individualized rather than based solely on a diagnosis.

Acupuncture may be considered as a complementary approach for people living with movement disorders, alongside appropriate medical care and neurological evaluation.

If you are experiencing new, worsening, or unexplained tremors, weakness, changes in balance, difficulty speaking, or other neurological symptoms, please seek evaluation from a qualified medical professional. Sudden neurological symptoms may require urgent medical attention.

Disclaimer: This article reflects a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective and is provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent Parkinson’s disease, stroke, or any other neurological condition, and it does not replace evaluation or treatment by a qualified medical professional.