Comprehensive Movement Disorders Program

Comprehensive Movement Disorders Program

Palm Beach Health Network. Our interdisciplinary team of neurologists, neurosurgeons, physical therapists, psychotherapists, social workers and nurses works together to create individualized treatment plans for Parkinson’s disease, tremors, dystonia, Huntington’s chorea, Tourette’s syndrome, ataxia and gait disorders.

The program offers advanced medical, surgical and rehabilitative therapies, including deep brain stimulation (DBS), to help regulate abnormal movement-related nerve activity.

 

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Neurologist reviewing brain scan results

Movement Disorders Services

Our neurology team offers advanced care for patients with movement and memory disorders through surgical and noninvasive services designed to help improve symptoms, support daily function and enhance quality of life.

  • Deep Brain Stimulation

    Learn how deep brain stimulation helps improve mobility, manage symptoms and enhance quality of life. 
    Deep Brain Stimulation

  • Focused Ultrasound

    Discover our innovative, scalpel-free focused ultrasound,  a noninvasive treatment for essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease. 

    Focused Ultrasound

  • Memory Disorder Clinic

    Schedule an evaluation at our Memory Disorder Clinic to assess worsening memory changes and identify causes affecting daily life and thinking abilities. 
    Memory Disorder Clinic

Movement Disorders

Movement disorders are caused by conditions affecting the brain, nerves and muscles, leading to problems with movement, balance and muscle control. Common movement disorders include Parkinson’s disease, tremor, dystonia and gait disorders.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include tremors, muscle stiffness, slow movement, involuntary muscle contractions, abnormal postures and difficulty with walking or balance.

Treatment

Treatment options are tailored to each patient and may include medications, physical therapy, Botox injections for dystonia and deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery for patients with Parkinson’s disease or severe tremors not responding to medication.

Diagnosing Movement Disorders

Movement disorders are diagnosed through detailed medical history, physical and neurological exams, including assessment of movement, reflexes and gait, with additional tests used to identify the underlying cause.

  • Blood Tests – Used to help identify medical conditions that may be contributing to movement disorder symptoms.
  • Lumbar Puncture – Analyzes cerebrospinal fluid to look for abnormalities that may affect the nervous system.
  • Electromyography (EMG) – Measures electrical impulses along nerves, nerve roots and muscle tissue.
  • Electroencephalogram (EEG) – Checks the electrical activity of the brain.
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) – Evaluates the heart’s electrical activity to determine whether heart problems may be causing symptoms.
  • Muscle Biopsy – Helps distinguish between nerve and muscle disorders.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – Head – Identifies changes or abnormalities in the brain that may be related to movement disorders.
  • Positron Emission Tomography (PET) – Provides information about brain metabolism and chemistry through functional and neurochemical imaging.
  • Computed Tomography (CT) – Head – Helps determine whether a blood clot or brain bleed causes symptoms.
  • CT Angiography (CTA) – Examines blood vessels supplying the brain for possible abnormalities.
  • MR Angiography (MRA) – Looks for problems in the brain’s blood vessels and may include MR perfusion imaging to evaluate blood flow.
  • Carotid Ultrasound – Uses Doppler ultrasound to check for narrowing or blockages in the carotid arteries that could increase stroke risk.
  • Cerebral Angiography – Provides a detailed view of blood vessels in the brain using contrast dye and a catheter inserted through the groin vessels.

Treating Movement Disorders

  • Medical
    • Treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s unique symptoms and condition severity. We also provide guidance on specific nutritional needs and carefully review existing medications to help minimize the risk of interactions between drugs and food.
  • Surgical
    • Surgical treatment options may be considered as part of an individualized care plan when appropriate for the patient’s condition and symptoms.
  • Rehabilitation
    • Physical medicine and rehabilitation services help patients improve and maximize mobility. Rehabilitation focuses on helping patients maintain function and independence.
  • Lifestyle
    • Regular exercise and stress reduction may help prevent functional decline associated with Parkinson’s disease and related disorders.

Frequently Asked Questions About Care for Movement Disorders in Palm Beach County 

Movement disorders are neurological conditions that affect the speed, control, or coordination of movement, leading to symptoms like tremors, stiffness, or difficulty walking. 

Parkinson’s disease symptoms include tremors, balance issues, and nonmovement effects like cognitive changes and sleep problems. It progresses from mild, one-sided symptoms to severe disability requiring assistance with daily activities. 

A movement disorder specialist is a neurologist with advanced training in conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, providing personalized care based on each patient’s symptoms and needs to help them better understand and manage their condition. 

You should see a doctor if you notice persistent tremors, stiffness, balance issues, or changes in movement that affect your daily activities. 

Neuroscience Services

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