Exceptional Care For Movement Disorders

The Sentara Comprehensive Movement Disorders Program is the only comprehensive treatment program in the South Hampton Roads area. This program integrates the care of an experienced movement disorders neurologist and advanced practice clinicians who guide our patients through an individualized treatment program using the most advanced therapies and research.

Movement disorders are neurologic conditions that cause problems with movement, including involuntary or voluntary movements or reduced or slow movement.

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Treatment & Technology

Medical Treatment

Many of the symptoms associated with Parkinson's are caused by a lack of dopamine and other organic chemicals produced by the brain. Current medicines work primarily on the dopamine system to improve rigidity and slowness associated with Parkinson's disease and sometimes tremors.

The treatment for Essential Tremor depends on the cause. Medicines can reduce or stop tremors and improve muscle control, but the appropriate treatment depends on an accurate diagnosis of the cause.

MRI Guided Focused Ultrasound

MRI Guided Focused Ultrasound is an incision-less treatment for patients with Essential Tremor or certain types of Parkinson's disease. Using advanced technology, neurosurgeons can treat deep in the brain with no surgical incisions and no hospital stay. The ultrasound waves are focused on a small point in the brain, thereby providing a therapeutic effect. Sentara is one of only three healthcare systems using this technology in Virginia.

LEARN MORE ABOUT FOCUSED ULTRASOUND TO TREAT HAND TREMORS

See the technology at work: meet Albert 'Albie' Bunnell, diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson's disease, before and after MRI Guided Focused Ultrasound.

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Surgical Treatment

The most commonly used surgical treatment of Parkinson's and Essential Tremor is Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). This procedure is performed by a neurosurgeon experienced in this type of surgery. Our specialists will help determine if you are a good candidate for this surgery.

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