Parkinson's disease & movement disorders
Our team of experts helps patients manage movement disorders – which affect the body’s speed, fluency, quality, and ease of mobility. We also provide comprehensive support for patients and caregivers, ensuring they have the resources and guidance needed throughout their journey.
What you need to know
Our program provides state-of-the-art care for patients with neurological conditions, specializing in the diagnosis, treatment and management of Parkinson's disease, ataxia, dystonia, essential tremor and other movement disorders.
Our multidisciplinary team includes neurologists, neurosurgeons and rehabilitation specialists who use advanced techniques like deep brain stimulation (DBS) and tailored medication plans to improve patient outcomes. We offer comprehensive services, including advanced imaging, genetic testing and access to clinical trials, all aimed at optimizing quality of life for our patients. Trust our experts for personalized care and leading edge treatment in the fight against movement disorders.
Risk factors
Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders are complex conditions with multiple risk factors.
Age
Genetics
Gender
Environmental factors, toxins and chemicals
Head trauma
Lifestyle factors and physical activity
While some of these factors are beyond your control. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and being aware of environmental risks may help reduce the likelihood of developing these disorders.
Symptoms of Parkinson's disease and movement disorders
Movement disorders are neurological conditions that cause abnormal voluntary or involuntary movements. Understanding the symptoms of Parkinson's and related movement disorders can help in early diagnosis and treatment.
Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
A hallmark symptom of Parkinson's, bradykinesia makes everyday tasks like walking, buttoning a shirt or writing increasingly difficult.
Gait changes
People with Parkinson's may develop a distinct shuffling walk with small steps and reduced arm swing.
Involuntary muscle contractions
These contractions may result in twisted postures. Symptoms can be localized to one part of the body or more generalized.
Muscle rigidity
Stiffness in the limbs and neck can make movement difficult, leading to a reduces range of motion.
Non-motor symptoms
Sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety, cognitive decline and autonomic dysfunctions often accompany movement disorders.
Postural instability
Issues with balance and coordination lead to an increased risk of falls.
Resting tremor
Uncontrollable shaking, often beginning in one hand, leg or finger, even when the affected body part is at rest.
Speech and swalling difficulties
Dysarthria (slurred or soft speech) and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) are common. especially in advanced Parkinson's.
Brain Health
Seven early symptoms of Parkinson's
The symptoms of Parkinson’s are different for everyone. Early symptoms are easy to dismiss. Learn about seven common signs and when to see a specialist.
How movement disorders are diagnosed
When it comes to diagnosing movement disorders, a comprehensive evaluation is essential. We start by understanding your symptoms, medical history and family history, followed by the use of advanced diagnostic toold to get a complete picture of your condition.
Our movement disorder diagnostic services
While less detailed than an MRI, a CT scan can quickly show structural abnormalities in the brain.
Dopamine transporter scan (DaTscan)
For some conditions, this test helps visualize the activity of dopamine, a chemical in the brain that plays a key role in movement.
This test measures activity in the muscles and can detect abnormalities that may point to certain movement disorders.
This scan produces detailed images of your brain and spine.
This test evaluates how well your nerves send electrical signals to the muscles.
Neurological evaluation
A detailed neurological evaluation is often the first step towards diagnosis.
A small sample of skin can be examined for specific markers that can indicate certain movement disorders.
Diagnosis and disease education
Once we've completed the necessary tests, we will meet with you to discuss you diagnosis in detail. We believe that education is empowering, and we will take the time to explain:
- What you diagnosis means
- How your condition may progress
- The treatment options available to you
We know that living with a movement disorder can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Our compassionate team is hear to support you every step of the way, providing the information and care you need to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Comprehensive treatment options for movement disorders
We utilize the latest medical advancements to help manage the symptoms of movement disorders effectively and support your overall well-being.
Oral medication therapy management
Medications are often the first line of treatment for manageing movement disorder symptoms.
Neurotoxins work by blocking the nerve signals that cause muscle contractions, providing relief from involuntary movements.
DBS involves the implantation of a device that sends electrical impulses deep within the brain, helping to regulate movement.
Focused ultrasound (FUS)
This procedure uses high-intensity sound waves to target small areas of brain tissue that are causing abnormal movements.
Through exercises and activities, physical therapy can enhance coordination and motor control.
Resources for Parkinson's and movement disorders
We offer a range of programs tailored to the needs of individuals with neurodegenerative diseases and their caregivers. These include:
- Educational seminars: learn more about the latest in treatment, research, and daily living strategies
- Healing arts programs: engage in creative and therapeutic activities to support emotional and physical well being
- Counseling and therapy services: access professional support to manage the emotional and psychological aspects of living with a movement disorder.
Improve quality of life through supervised exercise and group support.
Modified for all mobility levels—including those who walk independently or use a cane or wheelchair—the Parkinson’s Wellness Program at CentraState's Fitness & Wellness Center is designed to help patients manage symptoms such as stiffness, immobility, and gait abnormalities.
Benefits may include:
- Improved sense of well-being
- Enhanced cardiovascular fitness
- Increased flexibility and balance
- Better gait and walking speed
- Reduced risk of falls
- Greater muscular strength and endurance
This program is tailored to support long-term symptom management and overall quality of life.
Rock Steady Boxing is designed specifically for people with this degenerative movement disorder to help with motor skills, balance, speech, and sensory function. The program is tailored to the fitness levels of all stages of Parkinson’s—from newly diagnosed to those who’ve been living with it for years. The exercises in the program help patients improve agility, muscular endurance, accuracy, hand-eye coordination and overall strength. The program incorporates non-contact boxing, stretching, bicycling, running, jump roping, push-ups, and balancing.
The Rock Steady program meets twice per week and is led by certified trainers/coaches. One class is based on an individual’s specific abilities and the other is a group class open to all individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Rock Steady Boxing serves both men and women of all ages and levels of ability.
A physician’s referral is required to get started.
The following organizations and foundations offer valuable resources, research and support for iindividuals affected by Parkinson's disease.
A national organization providing support, education and research funding for Parkinson's disease.
Providing education, tools, and resources for people living with Parkinson’s, families and friends of those living with Parkinson’s, physicians, and Parkinson’s allied health professionals.
Dedicated to accelerating a cure for Parkinson's and improving therapies for those living with the disease reality.
The NINDS provides comprehensive information on Parkinson's disease, including research updates and treatment options.
Focused on funding research and providing resources to improve life for people with Parkinson's