Atypical Parkinson's Programs & Services
Our Programs & Services
After our neurologists have made the clinical diagnosis of Atypical Parkinsonism an individualized treatment plan is made. The course of treatment we offer varies based on each patient's symptoms and goals and is adjusted as the disease progresses.
Atypical Parkinsonism symptoms may be treated with a combination of:
- Oral medications (similar to medications given for Parkinson's disease)
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Speech and swallow therapy
- Management of blood pressure
- Management of bladder symptoms
- Vision therapy
- Therapy for sleep apnea
- Management of mood
- Management of cognitive symptoms
- Improved nutrition
- Injectable medications (such as botulinum toxin)
Deep brain stimulation is not indicated for Atypical Parkinsonism.
The best treatment for each symptom requires an integrated approach with expertise from our interdisciplinary team. In addition to symptom control, emphasis is on education and guidance of caregivers and the patient's local support network, which includes the Primary Care Physician.
Social workers, resource specialists, and palliative care specialists are available at any stage of the disease.
Interdisciplinary Clinic
From time to time, we offer a half-day clinic focused on Atypical Parkinsonian Syndromes to coordinate specialty appointments with members of our interdisciplinary team in a single hospital visit. These visits also enable patients and caregivers to meet others with a similar disease.
Research and Clinical Trials
As Atypical Parkinsonian syndromes are rare, there are fewer opportunities for patients to participate in trials than for patients with Parkinson's disease. Ongoing research trials focus on:
- Identifying biomarkers
- Medications that may slow the disease course
- Treatment of symptoms
Your neurologist will be able to guide you to research trials that are available and relevant for the particular disease subtype and stage.