REAL LIVES. REAL DIFFERENCE.

The following stories recount the experiences of patients using Medtronic deep brain stimulation (DBS) therapy to manage symptoms associated with dystonia.* Medtronic invited these patients to share their stories candidly. As you read the stories, please bear in mind that the experiences are specific to each particular person.

PAULA GETS HER LIFE BACK

Woman reading book on sofa in living room

In 1988, Paula's physical pain started to affect her professional relationships and her career. Eventually, she was forced to quit her job. On the advice of her neurologist, Paula started Medtronic DBS Therapy for her dystonia.

PETER RUNS, BIKES, AND TRAVELS

Young man with blonde hair wearing a blue apron serves coffee in a coffee shop

Peter was diagnosed with generalized dystonia when he was a teenager, and progressive symptoms left him unable to walk or stand upright. Then Peter met a doctor who recommended DBS.

Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.

*

Humanitarian Device - Authorized by Federal Law as an aid in the management of chronic, intractable (drug refractory) primary dystonia, including generalized and/or segmental dystonia, hemidystonia, and cervical dystonia (torticollis), in patients seven years of age or above. The effectiveness of the devices for treating these conditions has not been demonstrated.