Research Parkinson
Research on Constipation in People with Parkinson’s Disease
As part of the Master’s Degree Program in Traditional Chinese Medicine at the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SHUTCM), Hens Renierkens is conducting research on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndrome differentiation of constipation in people with Parkinson’s disease.
The study is being conducted in collaboration with Shuguang Hospital in Shanghai and focuses on the application of Traditional Chinese Medicine within a European population.
Background
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by symptoms such as slow movement, tremor, muscle rigidity and balance difficulties.
In addition to these motor symptoms, many patients experience non-motor symptoms (NMS), including:
- Constipation
- Delayed gastric emptying
- Excessive salivation
- Urinary dysfunction
- Orthostatic hypotension
- Erectile dysfunction
- Excessive sweating
Research indicates that 70-80% of people with Parkinson’s disease experience one or more non-motor symptoms. These symptoms can have a significant impact on quality of life.
Constipation is one of the most common non-motor symptoms and affects approximately 47-60% of Parkinson’s patients. In some cases, bowel dysfunction may occur years before the onset of motor symptoms.
Why is this research important?
While extensive research on Parkinson’s disease and Traditional Chinese Medicine has been conducted in China, little is known about the TCM syndrome differentiation of constipation in European Parkinson’s patients.
This study aims to improve our understanding of Parkinson-related constipation within a European population.
Who can participate?
We are looking for individuals who:
- Have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease;
- Experience constipation or bowel-related symptoms;
- Are willing to participate in a one-time assessment.
You may still participate if you are currently using laxatives.
Many people with Parkinson’s disease use laxatives, fiber supplements or other supportive measures to manage their bowel movements. The use of these interventions does not exclude participation. This information is important for obtaining a complete understanding of bowel function in Parkinson’s disease.
What does participation involve?
Participation consists of a single appointment lasting approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
The assessment includes:
- General patient information
- Constipation Scoring System (CSS)
- Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39)
- MDS-UPDRS assessment
- TCM diagnostic evaluation, including pulse and tongue diagnosis
Appointments can take place:
- At the clinic in Landgraaf, The Netherlands;
- At your home (upon agreement);
- Within a healthcare facility (upon agreement).
Privacy
All collected data will be anonymized and stored in accordance with applicable privacy regulations (GDPR). Personal information will not be identifiable in publications or research reports.
Costs
Participation in this study is free of charge.
No financial compensation is provided for participation.
No treatments are given as part of this research project. Any treatment requested outside the study falls under the regular clinic procedures and fees.
Interested in participating?
If you would like to participate or receive additional information, please contact:
E-mail: info@delevensbloem.eu
Telephone: +31 6 51571166
Please note that several inclusion and exclusion criteria apply. These will be discussed with you prior to participation.
