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Neurology movement disorders care for parkinsonian syndromes

Parkinsonian syndromes are movement disorders that share symptoms with Parkinson’s disease, like involuntary movements or rigidity.

Types of Parkinsonian Syndromes

Here are some of the more common parkinsonian syndromes, or non-Parkinson’s movement disorders:

  • Lewy body dementia (LBD) – This progressive dementia affects people’s ability to think and process information. It causes changes in attention or alertness for long periods of time, and can also cause hallucinations. Lewy body dementia is a common cause of dementia in elderly people, usually affecting patients in their 60s. 
  • Multiple system atrophy (MSA) – This rare neurological condition affects muscle control, as well as the body’s involuntary functions, like blood pressure, digestion and urination. 
  • Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) – This rare movement disorder affects bodily movements, including walking and balance, and eye movements. PSP typically begins when a person is in their mid- to late 60s.
  • Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD) – This disorder often appears with one-sided body stiffness, difficulties in coordinating movements (apraxia), and sometimes an "alien limb" phenomenon where a limb moves independently. CBD affects motor skills and can lead to significant challenges in daily activities.
  • Vascular Parkinsonism – This syndrome resembles Parkinson's disease but stems from multiple small strokes. Symptoms primarily affect the lower body, leading to a shuffling walk. It involves a particular focus on leg movements and can impact mobility significantly.

Choose UMMC for Parkinsonian Syndrome Care

The UMMC movement disorders team stays on the leading edge of research and treatments. Our researchers are leaders in their field and continuously contribute to advancements in movement disorders treatment. 

We’ve developed specific inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs to treat the symptoms of many movement disorders. We’ve pioneered developments in high-tech treatment options like MRI-guided focused ultrasound (FUS). 

We also offer clinical trials, so you have access to the latest emerging treatment options for these neurological conditions.

If you’re experiencing parkinsonian syndrome symptoms, or have a diagnosis and need care, call our team at 410-328-4323 to make an appointment.

Signs and Symptoms of Parkinsonian Syndromes

Signs and symptoms of parkinsonian syndromes vary depending on which type you have. However, general movement disorder symptoms include:

  • Rigidity (stiff or inflexible muscles)
  • Trouble with walking or balance
  • Uncontrollable muscle movements or shaking
  • Repetitive or twisting movements

Most movement disorders are degenerative, meaning that the symptoms get worse over time. Eventually, most people with these conditions will need assistance completing daily tasks. 

Diagnosing Parkinsonian Syndromes

Your doctor will start by conducting a complete physical exam, including asking you questions about your health history and your symptoms related to the movement disorder. You may want a family member or close friend to attend this visit with you.

The doctor will perform a neurological exam that can check your coordination, balance, movement, reflexes and strength. The doctor also may order imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, to rule out other health conditions that could be causing your symptoms.

If your doctor suspects you may have a movement disorder, they’ll likely refer you to a neurologist. It is important for you to see a neurologist for a definitive diagnosis. You need to receive an accurate and precise diagnosis so you can get the most effective treatment.

How to Treat Parkinsonian Syndromes

An experienced neurologist specializing in movement disorders can offer you the widest range of effective treatment options for your condition. While there currently is no cure for these disorders, there are many different medications that can help with the symptoms.

We are one of only a few hospitals that offers the very latest treatment option, MRI-guided focused ultrasound (FUS). We also offer traditional options like medication and deep brain stimulation (DBS). 

For some people with movement disorders, surgery can help treat symptoms, too. There is a great deal of research on all aspects of movement disorders, including how to slow or stop its progression. Read about movement disorder research at UMMC.

Make an Appointment

If you or a loved one has or suspects a movement disorder, call us at 410-328-4323 to make an appointment with one of our specialists.

 
 

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