Treatment for Parkinson's & tremor disorders
Find a neuro specialistPersonalized, comprehensive care
Specialized treatment can significantly improve quality of life for patients with tremors or Parkinson’s disease, a chronic and progressive movement disorder with no known cure. Our neurologists understand that not all tremors are caused by Parkinson’s disease and that each patient's symptoms can differ. They have the expertise to differentiate Parkinson’s from other neurological disorders and develop an individualized treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
What you can expect:
- Multidisciplinary team: Skilled neurologist in collaboration with specialists such as surgeons, therapists and advanced practice nurses
- Comprehensive strategy: Coordinated care support all the way through diagnosis and treatment to therapy and support
- Personalized approach: Individualized treatment plan based on your specific symptoms
- Convenient care: Locations across Chicago and the suburbs for expert care, close to home
To schedule an appointment, call 800-3-ADVOCATE or find a doctor online.
Symptoms of Parkinson's disease
Symptoms of Parkinson’s vary from person to person and may appear slowly, subtly and in no particular order. Many years could pass before symptoms begin to interfere with daily life. While uncontrollable shaking is a symptom of Parkinson's, tremors can indicate a variety of neurological disorders including conditions not associated with Parkinson’s.
Signs of Parkinson’s disease:
- Stiff or rigid muscles
- Resting tremors
- Slowed movements
- Poor balance and coordination
Expert diagnosis at Advocate
Diagnosing Parkinson’s in its early stages requires evaluation by experienced specialists equipped with the latest technology, as the disease’s first signs can mimic other medical conditions or resemble the effects of aging. Our experts combine monitoring techniques with leading-edge tools to differentiate Parkinson’s from other disorders and tremor-causing conditions. Early and accurate diagnosis allows our specialists to deliver prompt relief from whichever symptoms you are experiencing.
Parkinson's detection methods
Neurological exams evaluate symptoms and their severity.
Computed tomography (CT) scans provide detailed, cross-sectional views of the inside of the body using advanced X-ray technology.
Medication trials demonstrate whether symptoms are relieved with the use of certain Parkinson’s medications.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) produces very clear pictures of the inside of the body using a magnetic field and radio waves. MRIs often eliminate the need for biopsy or surgery and – since no X-rays are used – there is no exposure to radiation.
Movement disorders we treat
Patients with movement disorders may struggle with tremor, tics, other involuntary movements (dyskinesias), balance problems, progressively slower physical movement or even loss of physical movement. We treat the full range of movement disorders related to:
- Parkinson's disease and related disorders
- Dystonia
- Chorea & Huntington's disease
- Ataxia
- Myoclonus & stereotypical response to sudden and unexpected stimulus (STARTLE)
- Tremor & essential tremor
- Tics & Tourette disorder
- Restless legs syndrome
- Gait disorders (disorders with walking are common and significant cause of reduced quality of life and independence, leading to falls and fears of falling)
Treatment for a better quality of life
At Advocate, we can significantly improve your quality of life, using the most advanced treatment methods for Parkinson's disease and other tremor-causing conditions. Our multi-disciplinary team of neurologists, physiatrists, neurosurgeons, physical therapists, occupational therapists, social workers and advanced practice nurses develop an individualized care plan which, depending on your specific symptoms:
Your plan may include:
- Oral medications
- Physical therapy
- Neurosurgical techniques
- Botulinum toxin therapy
- Nerve blocks
- Intrathecal baclofen pumps
- Neuropsychiatric evaluations
- Sleep disorders management
Patients who are candidates for surgery have access to experts in deep brain stimulation, a surgical procedure used to treat some Parkinson’s and essential tremor patients.
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