Deep brain stimulation (DBS) therapy is a medical procedure that involves implanting electrodes deep into the brain to regulate the activity of specific brain regions. It has been proven effective in treating several neurological and psychiatric conditions, including Parkinson's disease, dystonia, epilepsy, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and depression. Explore DBS therapy and find out what it treats and how it helps.

Parkinson's Disease

DBS therapy has been proven effective in treating Parkinson's disease, which is caused by the degeneration of specific brain cells that produce dopamine. DBS therapy helps to restore the balance of neurotransmitters and reduce the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, including tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. A brain pacemaker is implanted under the skin, which sends electrical impulses to specific areas of the brain, modulating the activity of these cells and reducing the abnormal signals that cause tremors and other symptoms.

Dystonia

Dystonia is a neurological condition that causes involuntary muscle spasms and contractions, which can be painful and debilitating. DBS therapy can target specific brain regions that cause motor abnormalities, helping to reduce muscle spasms and improve mobility. It is effective in treating cervical dystonia, which affects the neck muscles and other forms of dystonia.

Epilepsy

DBS therapy can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in patients with epilepsy, particularly those who do not respond to traditional medication and surgery. It involves targeting specific areas of the brain that are responsible for seizures and modulating their activity through electrical stimulation.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

DBS therapy has proven to be effective in treating OCD. Repetitive and intrusive thoughts and behaviors characterize this mental health condition. DBS therapy involves targeting a specific brain region called the ventral capsule/ventral striatum (VC/VS), which is responsible for processing rewarding and aversive stimuli. By modulating the activity of this region, DBS therapy can reduce the symptoms of OCD, including obsessions and compulsions.

Depression

DBS therapy has also shown promise in treating severe depression that does not respond to traditional treatment such as medication and talk therapy. It involves targeting specific brain regions responsible for mood regulation and modulating their activity through electrical stimulation.

DBS therapy is a groundbreaking medical procedure that has been proven effective in treating several neurological and psychiatric conditions. It involves modulating the activity of specific brain regions through electrical stimulation, helping to reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients.

Contact a local provider to learn more about deep brain stimulation treatment.