Movement Disorders & Parkinson's

For individuals struggling with movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease (PD) and essential tremor, even the simplest tasks can become major obstacles that can be both physically and emotionally draining.

As part of the acclaimed Hoag Neurosciences Institute, the Hoag Movement Disorders Program helps patients gain an extensive understanding of their disease, and then creates a comprehensive, customized treatment and counseling plan based on each patient’s unique circumstances. The primary goal is to help patients achieve the highest quality of life possible.

The Hoag Movement Disorders Program approaches patient care holistically, using the latest drug therapies, treatment and surgical options, rehabilitation methodologies and other support services to treat patients individually.

Movement Disorders

Movement disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor, are a primary cause of neurological disability. Even the most basic daily activities can be significantly impaired for individuals with a movement disorder. With no known cure, treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms and must be tailored to each individual patient.

Hoag Parkinson's and Movement Disorders program is comprised of specialized patient evaluation, advanced medical therapy and treatment options, as well as an array of support groups. Founded in 1994, the program treats patients with movement disorders including Parkinson's disease, dystonia, essential tremor and gait problems, enabling them to maintain the highest level of independence.

Special attention is paid to guiding patients and their families through the Movement Disorders Program, with a multidisciplinary team to support patients every step of the way. This includes a nurse navigator who facilitates and plans both inpatient and outpatient care, and ensures that patients receive the necessary education, resources and specific services they need.

As a leader in the management and treatment of movement disorders, Hoag Parkinson's and Movement Disorders program focuses on providing the best individualized care for each patient. Patients and their caregivers undergo a comprehensive evaluation and assessment to develop an individualized treatment plan. Treatment usually consists of a combination of medications and rehabilitation therapy. However, if side effects become intolerable, or for tremors that are resistant to medication, surgery offers an alternative solution.

Monthly Case Conference at Hoag

A multidisciplinary case conference is held each month to review complex patient cases. This unique forum offers the opportunity for members of all disciplines, including physicians, nurses, physical therapists, speech therapists, and other health care professionals to share information about innovative new therapies. Patients benefit from this combined expertise and experience.