Hi all. I am Neil. I am 57 years old and I was diagnosed two years ago. Has anyone any thoughts on cold therapy or ice baths etc. I am thinking about giving it a try
Hi there, i use cold plunges 4-5 times a week, after doing 20 mins in a sauna. I find the sauna makes my tremors worse whilst im in there, then the cold plunge brings them back down. Cant say ive noticed any relief in my parkinsons symptoms long term but would recommended them for the health benefits they bring. .
Hi Neil, thank you for reaching out and sharing your interest in cold therapy and ice baths. Some early research suggests that cold exposure, including ice baths, may have potential neuroprotective effects and can boost certain brain chemicals like dopamine, which could impact how you feel after a session. There are anecdotal reports of people with Parkinson’s feeling temporarily more energetic or clear-headed after cold water therapy, though personal experiences vary quite a bit.
That said, cold therapy hasn’t been clinically proven as a direct treatment for Parkinson’s symptoms, and research is still limited—most findings are based on animal studies or personal accounts rather than large clinical trials. Some people also find the cold quite challenging, particularly due to Parkinson’s-related issues with temperature regulation. If you do give it a try, it’s advisable to start slowly (like with cool showers rather than ice baths), listen to your body, and check in with your Parkinson’s nurse or doctor beforehand—especially if you have any heart or circulation concerns.
If you go ahead, please share how you find it—other members of the community are often interested to hear about new approaches! And if anyone else has also experienced this please let us know too.
I began having cold showers 2 years ago and love it. This time of year is a great time to start as the water won’t be as cold as what we have in winter. I started just as a mental health thing and have continued.