Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders

Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders

Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders are among the most common neurological diseases that can significantly affect the daily lives of many people. Especially when important motor skills are limited, quality of life and independence suffer. At Neurozentrum Filderstadt, we meet these challenges with modern diagnostic methods and a broad-based treatment approach so that you always feel in good hands. Our experienced neurologists attach great importance to individual therapy that is oriented to your personal needs.

Our goal is to provide you with well-founded information about Parkinson’s disease and different forms of movement disorders so that you can develop a deeper understanding of these diseases. We would also like to show how important an early diagnosis is for the further course and how we at Neurozentrum Filderstadt can enable optimal therapy.

Causes and symptoms

Parkinson’s disease, also known as Morbus Parkinson, is caused by the death of dopamine-producing cells in certain brain regions. This leads to typical symptoms such as tremors (tremor), muscle stiffness (rigor), and slowing of movement (bradykinesia). In addition to these main symptoms, balance disorders and changes in facial expressions are often observed in Parkinson’s disease. Other movement disorders, such as dystonia, are characterized by involuntary muscle contractions that can lead to twisted or abnormal postures.

Many of these neurological diseases occur in advanced age, but can in principle also affect younger people. Often, the symptoms develop insidiously and increase in intensity over time. At Neurozentrum Filderstadt, we know that an early diagnosis is crucial to support those affected with an adapted therapy in good time and to positively influence the course.

Diagnostic procedures

In order to distinguish between Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders such as dystonia or atactic disorders, we carry out a detailed anamnesis and neurological examination at Neurozentrum Filderstadt. In doing so, we record your medical history and pay attention to specific symptoms such as tremor, rigor, or balance problems. In addition, imaging procedures such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) may be necessary to visualize structural changes in the brain. If necessary, a corresponding examination will be arranged by the Neurozentrum and forwarded to suitable specialist centers.

In addition, special function and laboratory tests, for example to determine metabolic values, help to differentiate other causes. Through this comprehensive diagnosis, we obtain an accurate picture of your personal situation and can jointly decide which therapy is best suited for you. Our goal is to quickly provide you with clarity about the nature of your movement disorders and at the same time create an atmosphere of trust.

Therapy options (medication & non-medication)

The therapy for Parkinson’s disease and other neurological diseases usually comprises a combination of drug-based and non-drug-based approaches. In Parkinson’s disease, dopaminergic drugs are usually at the forefront, which help to compensate for the dopamine deficiency and reduce symptoms such as rigor or tremor. In some cases, therapy with so-called MAO-B inhibitors or COMT inhibitors is also useful to prolong the effect of dopamine.

In addition to drug-based therapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are also of great importance. In this way, those affected can train to maintain or improve motor skills and remain independent for as long as possible. At Neurozentrum Filderstadt, we work closely with specialized therapists to realize a holistic concept. In addition, there are complementary measures such as neuropsychological support or psychotherapeutic counseling, as mental health also plays an important role in Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders.