Untangling Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease

Scientists and physicians at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) are leading a $26 million research program using advanced technology to characterize human brain networks.  This will enable them to better understand and treat a range of psychiatric disorders including anxiety, major depression and addiction. The new program, launched in support of President Barack Obama’s BRAIN (Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies) Initiative, will fund two projects focusing on anxiety and depression in Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy. UCSF physician-researchers are recording brain activity in people with Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy to identify brain-signaling pathways associated with anxiety and depression. The aim is to develop stimulation devices and therapies that guide the brain to strengthen alternative circuits. “Most people think of Parkinson’s as a movement disorder,” saysPhilip A. Starr, MD, PhD, professor of neurological surgery and surgical director of UCSF’s Bachmann-Strauss Dystonia and Parkinson’s Disease Center of Excellence. “But it is in fact a neuropsychiatric disorder that includes problems with mood, thinking, anxiety, impulsivity and even a form of addiction to medication known as dopamine dysregulation syndrome. These symptoms are as fundamental a part of the disorder as slow movement or tremor.” He explains that the psychiatric symptoms of Parkinson’s disease wax and wane, so the recordings should reveal how brain activity changes when patients enter a depressed or anxious state. The five-year, multi-institutional project is funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and involves more than a dozen scientists, engineers and physicians at UC Berkeley, Cornell University and New York University.

Got a Movement Disorder?  Experts Offer Tips on Staying Active

There’s no overestimating the benefits of exercise for individuals with dystonia, Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. Research has found that exercise can strengthen brain function and motor capabilities, improve balance, reduce stress and even improve sleep. Summer is a great time of year to be outdoors and active, if you are able. Here are tips on staying active—and doing it safely: Before starting an exercise program of any type, discuss your plans with a health professional. “Ease into exercise slowly, stay in tune with your body, and don’t try to do too much too soon,” says Dr. Rebecca States, a professor of physical therapy at Long Island University Brooklyn. “While it’s normal to feel tired after starting an exercise routine, you should not completely exhaust yourself.” Exercise at your own pace. Find a level you’re comfortable with and avoid comparing yourself to people without movement disorders, advises physical therapist Bill Gallagher PT, CMT, CYT, a master clinician in integrative rehabilitation at Mount Sinai Medical Center. “Running 10 miles is easy for many active, healthy people,” he says. “But for someone with dystonia, walking around the block may be an equally big accomplishment.”  Once you’ve started an exercise regime, experts say it’s okay to push yourself to the next level, but do so carefully. “For someone who has not been active, I would recommend—as a start—walking for 15 minutes, two or three times a week,” says States. “As exercise becomes easier, increase the time to 30 minutes. Also, those who are not used to walking for fitness should begin with a partner, in case balance issues arise.” Consider seeking out an appropriate-level yoga class with a yoga instructor who encourages skill level adaptations. “Other activities like tai chi and feldenkrais can also help improve body awareness,” adds States.

Make September Dystonia Awareness Month

A coalition of dystonia patient organizations is spearheading a petition drive to make September Dystonia Awareness Month.  The petition drive will begin September 1 and 100,000 signatures are needed from anyone age 13 and up.  Once the petition gets the required number of signatures, White House staff will review the petition, forward it to the appropriate policy experts and issue an official response.  This petition will help bring awareness to our leaders and our nation about the need for further dystonia support.