Neurological movement disorders are slow-progressing conditions that affect
a person’s movement, muscle control and/or balance. Movement disorders
usually have a genetic or environmental cause and they are very complex.
They can be divided into two groups: those that result in too much movement
and those that result in insufficient movement. Parkinson’s disease,
tremor, and dystonia are all examples of movement disorders.
Categories of Movement Disorders
Insufficient Movement: Akinetic, bradykinetic, or hypokinetic syndromes
Too Much Movement: Jerky movements (chorea, myoclonus, and tic disorders) and non-jerky
movements (dystonia and tremor)
There is not yet a cure for movement disorders, but the symptoms can be
managed effectively with help from a neurologist. Ogden Clinic’s
high standard of care includes advanced diagnostic testing for our patients
and a variety of treatment options for those who live with involuntary
movement disorders.
Managing Involuntary Movement Disorders
There are many options for people with movement disorders and Parkinson’s
disease, but since everyone reacts to symptoms differently, it can take
several tries to find the correct combination for your needs. Many people
with Parkinson’s disease, tremor, and dystonia manage their symptoms
with medication therapy and lifestyle adaptations. Those with complex
and severe movement disorders may also consider surgery to improve their
quality of life.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Treatment
Ogden Clinic neurologists perform an in-office surgical procedure called
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for people whose quality of life is no longer
acceptable with medication therapy only. Deep brain stimulation is not
a cure for movement disorders, but it can successfully treat the symptoms
by disrupting the abnormal patterns of brain activity that define these
diseases. It’s often described as a brain “pacemaker”
because constant pulses of electrical charge are delivered at settings
that are thought to restore normal brain rhythms and allow the restoration
of more normal movements.
We will consider all options for our patients depending on their therapeutic
needs and their changing needs over time. Ogden Clinic neurologists also
have strong ties with neurosurgeons in the area and will make referrals
for patients who can benefit from surgical intervention.
