Last updated 1 day 3 hours ago
Patients with Parkinson’s disease can suffer from a variety of debilitating symptoms, from tremors and stiffness to limb rigidity and walking problems. Although many of the men and women with Parkinson’s respond well to medications, others do not achieve the level of stability they desire with this form of treatment. To help these remaining patients, deep brain stimulation (DBS) was developed as a more advanced surgical option. Unlike previous surgeries used to treat Parkinson’s, DBS does not damage any nervous tissue and can be reversed or altered if better treatments are introduced or if the patient’s condition changes.
Deep brain stimulation is achieved through a surgical approach in which a small electrode is implanted in the brain area that is affected by Parkinson’s. Through a small opening in the skull, the neurosurgeon inserts the lead (or electrode) into the brain at the target area using MRI or CT imaging guidance. From this electrode, an insulated wire is placed beneath the skin of the head, neck, and shoulder and ends at the battery pack. Also called the ‘neurostimulator’, this battery pack is placed under the skin of the chest or abdomen.
The neurostimulator is responsible for controlling the electrical stimulation that the affected brain area receives. Once released from the battery pack, the signal travels up the insulated extension wire and into the electrode, releasing an electrical impulse that inhibits the activity of the abnormal neurons within the brain. Many patients who have undergone this procedure have experienced good results and are able to significantly reduce their intake of prescription medications.
Many patients who have received this treatment have also reported improvements in mood, resulting in its potential future development as a treatment for depression and other mood disorders. To learn more about the effects of deep brain stimulation, you can call the brain and nervous system specialists at the Illinois Neurological Institute at (309) 740-3766.
Last updated 3 days ago
Recently through our blogs we’ve taken a detailed look at treatments for epilepsy and what causes transient ischemic attacks. Explore the below links to learn more about these topics and others.
For treatment of seizure, strokes, brain tumors, and other conditions affecting the brain and spine, call (309) 740-3766 to make an appointment with a doctor at Illinois Neurological Institute in Peoria.
Last updated 8 days ago
If you’d like to learn more about neurological conditions like seizures and strokes, how they are treated, and how to keep yourself healthy, take a look at these links for some additional information.
- To get an idea of what our doctors are researching, check out this summary of an article authored by Dr. Andrew Tsung.
- This website can tell you more about arterial plaque.
- Vagus nerve stimulation is a non-surgical technique for treating seizures that are resistant to medication, as the American Association of Neurological Surgeons can tell you.
- Head over to the website of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons to learn more about herniated discs.
For treatment of seizure, strokes, brain tumors, and other conditions affecting the brain and spine, call (309) 740-3766 to make an appointment with a doctor at Illinois Neurological Institute in Peoria.
Last updated 10 days ago
Thousands of people every year suffer from herniated discs, a back condition that can cause pain and nerve damage. For more information about this injury and its symptoms, read on.
Herniated Discs
To understand a herniated disc, it is important to understand a bit about spinal anatomy. The spine is a bundle of nerves extending from the brain stem surrounded by protective bones called vertebrae. Between the vertebrae are disks, soft pads that cushion the bones and allow for bending and twisting. Each disk is made up of a firm outer layer of cartilage with a softer, gel-like center. If a disc is put under enough pressure at one moment or cumulatively, the outer cartilage will crack and the inner gel will leak into the spinal cord, putting pressure on the nerves and causing irritation. These injuries are usually caused by repeated lifting and twisting, but they can also result from falls or a blow to the back. Herniated discs are more likely in middle aged people or slightly older; as people age, spinal discs lose water and become more brittle and prone to damage.
Symptoms
Some people do not experience symptoms from their herniated discs, but many people experience pain or numbness. Herniated discs in the lower spine usually lead to pain in the thigh, buttock, or leg. Numbness and tingling are also common symptoms that will occur in the areas of the body served by the inflamed nerves. If the irritated nerves serve muscles, these muscles may weaken, leading to stumbling or difficulty lifting. Patients experiencing herniated discs may also experience trouble controlling their bladder or bowels. However, patients may not necessarily experience all of these symptoms; depending on the nerves affected, some or all of them may manifest, or none at all.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, call (309) 740-3766 to schedule an appointment with Illinois Neurological Institute. Our skilled, experienced surgeons and neurologists can diagnose and treat herniated discs, allowing you to get back to your normal life.
Last updated 11 days ago
Stroke - Don't rely on luck - know what to do and where to go. Join us on Tuesday, May 22, 2012 from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. for a free dinner program to learn more about Stroke and Carotid Artery Disease.
At this free dinner event you will:
- Learn the Risk Factors and Signs/Symptoms of Stroke
- Learn about cutting-edge treatment options
- Interact and ask questions with a panel of stroke physician experts
To reserve your spot today, click here.
