Deep Brain Stimulation: Game Changer for Parkinson's Patients
A sports reporter for most of his life, Joe was feeling fine when he went in for his physical a few years ago.
His doctor noticed a faint flutter in the muscles of his upper back. Joe didn’t think much of it, but after further testing, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at 57 years old. At first, the diagnosis shocked Joe — he had no other symptoms. But over the next few years, the symptoms slowly appeared and worsened. First, his hands shook, then his head. Eventually, his whole body would tremor. He had balance problems, felt dizzy, and found it hard to sleep, walk, write, and even button up his shirt or tie his shoes.
Finding hope at the AHN Neuroscience Institute
Initially, Joe didn’t think he wanted to go through with deep brain stimulation (DBS) as it seemed a bit too invasive. But after the medications alone were no longer enough, he researched his other options and decided he wanted to give it a try. That’s when he met AHN neurosurgeon Nestor Tomycz, MD. After several neuropsychological evaluations to ensure Joe was a good candidate for the surgery, Dr. Tomycz performed DBS. He implanted a neurotransmitter device in Joe's chest, which connects to electrodes placed in the motor region of his brain. The device delivers mild electrical impulses, which greatly reduce his tremors.
Optimizing for maximum symptom relief
After just a one-night stay in the hospital, where Dr. Tomycz programmed and optimized the device, Joe went home. Now, all he has to do is charge the stimulator about once a week. He has fewer tremors and much better control of his movement and balance. He can even button his shirts and tie his shoes without any problem. Perhaps most surprising, Joe said, “My golf game is better than ever!” He meets with Dr. Tomycz every three months to check on his progress and adjust his stimulation settings.
Reducing symptoms and improving lives
Despite the fact that Parkinson’s is a progressive disease with no known cure, deep brain stimulation is being used with striking results in patients with movement disorders.
The experts at the AHN Neuroscience Institute can help you or your loved one get control back, too. Call (412) 359-8850 or request an appointment to learn more about AHN Parkinson’s disease services.
