For individuals dealing with Parkinson’s, it can often feel like a constant battle. Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and degenerative disorder of the nervous system that affects movement.

It can cause tremors, rigidity, slowed movement, and balance issues, among other symptoms. The exact cause is unknown, and there is currently no known cure.

However, over the past 10 years, significant advancements in research have led to a wide range of invasive treatments that provide hope for Parkinson’s patients.

Deep Brain Stimulation

Deep brain stimulation, or DBS, is a surgical treatment option for Parkinson’s disease that has been available for over 20 years.

It involves placing a small, battery-operated device called a neurostimulator under the skin of the chest and connecting it to electrodes that are surgically implanted in specific areas of the brain.

DBS works by sending electrical signals to these areas of the brain, which can help reduce the symptoms of Parkinson’s. While DBS is not a cure, it can significantly improve quality of life for Parkinson’s patients.

Levodopa-Carbidopa Intestinal Gel

Levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel, or LCIG, is a relatively new invasive treatment option for Parkinson’s disease. It involves surgically placing a thin, flexible tube through the abdominal wall and into the small intestine.

The tube is connected to a portable pump that delivers a gel formulation of levodopa-carbidopa directly into the small intestine.

LCIG can provide more consistent symptom control compared to oral medications, which can wear off and cause fluctuations in symptom severity throughout the day.

Ablative Surgery

Ablative surgery is another invasive treatment option for Parkinson’s disease. It involves the destruction of specific areas of the brain that are responsible for the symptoms of Parkinson’s.

While ablative surgery is not as commonly used as DBS or LCIG, it can be an effective treatment option for some Parkinson’s patients who do not respond well to other treatments.

Gene Therapy

Gene therapy is a rapidly developing field that involves the delivery of genetic material to cells in the body to treat or prevent disease.

In the context of Parkinson’s disease, gene therapy is being studied as a potential treatment option to either replace or protect the dopamine-producing cells that are lost in Parkinson’s.

While gene therapy is still in the early stages of development and clinical trials, it holds promise in the future as a non-invasive and potentially curative treatment option for Parkinson’s patients.

Stem Cell Therapy

Stem cell therapy involves the use of stem cells to replace or repair damaged tissues in the body.

In the context of Parkinson’s disease, stem cell therapy is being studied as a potential treatment option to replace the dopamine-producing cells that are lost in Parkinson’s.

While stem cell therapy is still in the early stages of development and clinical trials, it holds promise in the future as a potentially curative treatment option for Parkinson’s patients.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is not an invasive treatment option for Parkinson’s, but it can be an important part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Physical therapy can help improve mobility, balance, and coordination, which can help Parkinson’s patients maintain their independence and quality of life.

Speech Therapy

Speech therapy is another non-invasive treatment option for Parkinson’s that can be important for maintaining quality of life.

Many individuals with Parkinson’s experience speech difficulties, such as slurred speech or a soft voice, which can impact their ability to communicate effectively with others. Speech therapy can help improve these difficulties and maintain communication skills.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy is another non-invasive treatment option for Parkinson’s that can be important for maintaining independence and quality of life.

Occupational therapy can help Parkinson’s patients learn how to adapt to changes in their physical abilities and make modifications to their environment to make daily tasks easier.

Counseling and Support

Counseling and support are important aspects of a comprehensive treatment plan for Parkinson’s patients.

Parkinson’s can be a challenging disease to live with, and it is important for patients to have access to support and resources that can help them cope with the emotional aspects of the disease.

Conclusion

While Parkinson’s disease can be a difficult and overwhelming diagnosis, there is significant hope through the advancements in invasive treatments.

Treatments such as DBS, LCIG, ablative surgery, gene therapy, and stem cell therapy offer potential relief from symptoms and, in some cases, may even offer a cure for Parkinson’s. It is important for individuals living with Parkinson’s to work closely with their healthcare team to explore all treatment options and find the right combination of treatments for their individual needs.