Deep brain stimulation (DBS) may help control the movement symptoms of Parkinson’s — tremor (shaking), slowed movement (bradykinesia), and stiffness (rigidity). When medications aren’t as effective as they used to be and your symptoms make even everyday tasks a challenge, DBS may help you regain control again.
WHAT IS DBS?
DBS uses a small, pacemaker-like device, placed under the skin of the chest, to send electronic signals to an area in the brain that controls movement. To give you relief, these signals block some of the brain messages that cause the movement symptoms of Parkinson’s.
DBS Therapy Benefits & Risks
- Less medication, more relief
Medtronic DBS Therapy may reduce Parkinson’s medication.1 This may reduce medication-related side effects like unintended movements (dyskinesia), while simplifying your medication routine, with fewer pills or less frequent doses.
- Better mornings
DBS delivers therapy 24 hours a day — it doesn’t wear off while you sleep. It’s already working the moment you wake up.
- Lifestyle improvements
Unlike some other Parkinson’s therapies, the DBS system requires no daily cleaning or refilling.
- More good hours of movement control
Each day, DBS provides additional hours of good movement control (“on” time) without unintended movements (dyskinesia), compared to medication alone.1
- A better quality of life
In combination with medication, DBS Therapy has helped people with Parkinson’s enjoy an improved quality of daily life, compared to those taking medication alone.1
- Keep your options open
Unlike some surgeries for Parkinson’s, DBS is reversible. The system can be turned off or removed, in most cases, and won’t limit your future treatment options.
Patients should always discuss the potential risks and benefits of the therapy with a physician. A prescription is required. DBS Therapy requires brain surgery. Risks of brain surgery may include serious complications such as coma, bleeding inside the brain, stroke, seizures and infection. DBS Therapy may cause worsening of some symptoms. See Important Safety Information.
DBS doesn’t make things exactly like they used to be, but it makes things possible.
— Anna, receiving DBS therapy for Parkinson's disease
Actual patient not pictured
FIND A PARKINSON’S SPECIALIST
Use our online directory to search for Parkinson's specialists by ZIP code. Find a doctor who will understand your needs and treatment options, and call for an appointment.
TALK WITH
SOMEONE
WHO HAS DBS
Get the information and support you need to make a confident decision about DBS therapy.
CONTACT US
- If you or your loved one are considering DBS therapy and would like more information, call us at 877-438-3574, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. CT.
- If you or your loved one are currently a Medtronic DBS patient and have questions, please call Medtronic Patient Services at
800-510-6735, Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. CT.
