RSSDBS Therapy Found Helpful for Parkinson’s Patients
Jan 27
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In a new study, researchers at the University of Florida and 14 other medical centers discovered evidence that supports claims that deep brain stimulation (DBS) may improve motor functions and enhance the quality of life for patients’ with advanced Parkinson’s disease.
The study was funded by a manufacturer of DBS devices, which researchers utilized to treat the Parkinson’s patients. Data supported theories that a consistent current device could help in reducing the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Researchers stated that the devices are meant to decrease the amount of tremors, improve the slowness of movement, reduce the disability of motor functions and decrease involuntary movements that are a common side-effect of medications used to treat Parkinson’s.
After being treated, the study showed, via 135 patient diaries, participants experienced longer periods of symptom control void of involuntary movements, commonly known as “on time.” Patients that got the stimulation therapy experienced an average increase of 4.27 hours of “on time”, when compared to the increase of 1.77 hours in the group that did not receive the treatment.
Michael S. Okun, MD, National Medical Director for the National Parkinson Foundation, stated, “I think it is safe to say since dopamine treatment emerged in the 1960s, DBS has been the single biggest symptomatic breakthrough for Parkinson’s patients who have experienced the fluctuations associated with levodopa therapy.”
As a Santa Monica Neurologist, I’m happy to learn that new treatments are being looked in to for managing patients’ pain and symptoms. If you suffer from a chronic condition that causes you to experience pain, it may in your interests to contact a Santa Monica pain management doctor.