If you’re suffering from tremors, uncontrolled movements, and unusual physical impulses, you might have a neurological condition. What can you do to regain control over your physical actions?
Recent developments in the field of medicine include a viable treatment for movement disorders: deep brain stimulation. This is a minimally invasive surgical treatment for several types of chronic conditions that involve uncontrolled movements, such as Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and tremors.
How Deep Brain Stimulation Works
In deep brain stimulation, electrodes are implanted in select areas of the brain that are directly involved with physical coordination and movement. These electrode implants produce electrical impulses on the brain, helping to regulate abnormal impulses.
It involves a two-part surgery. In the first part, which is in the brain, a lead is inserted that houses the electrodes. An extension wire is run underneath the skin toward the collarbone.
In the second part of the surgery, a pulse generator is implanted in your chest near your collarbone. The extension wire is then connected to this device.
The premise of this treatment is to directly change brain activity with electric impulses in a controlled manner. It is done automatically via the pacemaker-like generator.
Who Can Benefit from This Treatment?
Deep brain stimulation treatment is an established procedure for those suffering from disorders associated with movement, namely:
- Essential tremor (rhythmic, uncontrollable shaking)
- Parkinson’s disease
- Epilepsy
- Dystonia (muscle contractions and twisting)
- Psychiatric conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
This treatment has been approved for use by the FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration) for Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, dystonia, and essential tremor as associated with Parkinson’s. Deep brain stimulation is not a cure, and other treatments may be prescribed by your doctor to be used concurrently.
Primarily, deep brain stimulation is a treatment for those who have tried traditional medication and other types of noninvasive treatments, but have not experienced improvements in their condition. It is an alternative or additional treatment which can be tried for relief and management of their movement disorder.
Studies are being conducted to find out what other conditions may be treated by deep brain stimulation, including the following:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Chronic pain
- Depression
- Addiction
- Cluster headache
- Stroke
- Dementia
Deep brain stimulation may be able to help regulate the symptoms and change the overall quality of life for you. It is designed to lessen your symptoms and improve your condition.
There are many different factors involved in the successful outcome of deep brain stimulation, which is why it’s essential to talk to your surgeon and physician before deciding to undergo surgery.
Neurosurgeons in Colorado Springs
If you or a loved one has Parkinson’s disease, tremors, or another neurological condition, contact our caring team. Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery has several convenient locations to serve you in Colorado Springs, Lone Tree, Parker, and Aurora.
Give us a call at (303) 790-1800 or fill out our easy-to-use online appointment request form now. Don’t lose hope of regaining control over your movements again – consult with us today.
