HOW DBS MAY HELP DBS Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) may help control the movement symptoms of Parkinson’s — tremor (shaking), slowed movement (bradykinesia), and stiffness (rigidity). When medications aren’t as effective as they used to be and your symptoms make even everyday tasks a challenge, DBS may help you regain control again.

WHAT IS DBS?

DBS uses a small, pacemaker-like device, placed under the skin of the chest, to send electronic signals to an area in the brain that controls movement. To give you relief, these signals block some of the brain messages that cause the movement symptoms of Parkinson’s.

DBS Therapy Benefits & Risks

  • Less medication, more relief
    DBS Therapy may reduce Parkinson’s medication.1 This may reduce medication-related side effects like unintended movements (dyskinesia), while simplifying your medication routine, with fewer pills or less frequent doses.

  • Better mornings
    DBS delivers therapy 24 hours a day — it doesn’t wear off while you sleep. It’s already working the moment you wake up.

  • Lifestyle improvements
    Unlike some other Parkinson’s therapies, the DBS system requires no daily cleaning or refilling.

  • More good hours of movement control
    Each day, DBS provides additional hours of good movement control (“on” time) without unintended movements (dyskinesia), compared to medication alone.1

  • A better quality of life
    In combination with medication, DBS Therapy has helped people with Parkinson’s enjoy an improved quality of daily life, compared to those taking medication alone.1

  • Keep your options open
    Unlike some surgeries for Parkinson’s, DBS is reversible. The system can be turned off or removed, in most cases, and won’t limit your future treatment options.

Patients should always discuss the potential risks and benefits of the therapy with a physician. A prescription is required. DBS Therapy requires brain surgery. Risks of brain surgery may include serious complications such as coma, bleeding inside the brain, stroke, seizures and infection. DBS Therapy may cause worsening of some symptoms. 

NEXT: Is it the right time for DBS?