Parkinson’s Disease: Symptoms, Latest Treatments & Living Well | Penn State Health

The story of Brandan Mehaffie, a triathlete from Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, facing the challenges of Parkinson’s disease, resonates deeply as we observe National Parkinson’s Awareness Month this April. But this isn’t just a story about one man’s journey; it’s a window into the rapidly evolving landscape of neurological care, and a particularly hopeful one for residents of the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area, where access to cutting-edge treatments is becoming increasingly available.

Understanding Parkinson’s Disease: Beyond the Tremors

Parkinson’s disease, affecting approximately 1.1 million Americans, is a progressive disorder of the nervous system. The core issue lies in the gradual loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain. Dopamine is crucial for controlling movement, and its depletion leads to the hallmark symptoms most people associate with the disease: tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement, and postural instability. However, as Dr. Sol De Jesus, a neurologist at Penn State Neuroscience Institute, points out, the presentation of Parkinson’s can be surprisingly varied. Up to 20-30% of patients don’t experience tremors at all. Early symptoms can also include changes in smell or taste, sleep disturbances, mood swings, and even constipation – often appearing years before motor symptoms become obvious.

The Impact on Daily Life and the Search for Solutions

The insidious nature of Parkinson’s lies in its ability to subtly erode quality of life. Dr. James McInerney, a neurosurgeon at Penn State Health Neurosurgery, describes how patients often struggle with seemingly simple tasks – rising from a chair, walking down a hallway. These difficulties, often starting on one side of the body, can significantly impact independence and daily routines. For years, treatment focused on managing symptoms with medications like carbidopa-levodopa, which replenish dopamine levels. While effective, these medications can come with side effects, including involuntary movements (dyskinesias), and their effectiveness can diminish over time.

The Rise of Advanced Therapies: A New Era in Parkinson’s Care

The past few years have witnessed a remarkable surge in innovative treatments offering renewed hope for those living with Parkinson’s. Focused ultrasound, approved by the FDA in 2017 and expanded in 2025, utilizes ultrasound waves to precisely target and alleviate tremors. However, the most significant advancement highlighted in the Penn State Health case is adaptive deep brain stimulation (DBS). DBS involves surgically implanting electrodes into specific brain regions and connecting them to a neurostimulator, a device similar to a pacemaker. This device delivers electrical impulses to modulate brain activity and suppress symptoms.

BrainSense™ Adaptive DBS: A Personalized Approach

Traditional DBS provides continuous stimulation, but BrainSense™ adaptive DBS represents a paradigm shift. As Dr. McInerney explains, it’s akin to “jamming” the faulty brain signals causing Parkinson’s symptoms. However, unlike traditional DBS, BrainSense™ doesn’t just deliver a constant signal. It continuously monitors brain activity and automatically adjusts the stimulation level in real-time, responding to the patient’s changing needs. This personalized approach can improve symptom control, reduce side effects, and potentially extend the battery life of the neurostimulator. Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center was among the first 23 hospitals nationwide to offer this advanced technology, making it a beacon of hope for patients in Pennsylvania and the surrounding region.

Looking Ahead: Research and the Quest for a Cure

While adaptive DBS represents a major step forward, the ultimate goal remains a cure for Parkinson’s disease. Researchers worldwide are actively exploring promising avenues, including stem cell therapy and gene therapy, aiming to regenerate dopamine-producing cells and restore brain function. However, as Dr. McInerney acknowledges, a cure is still on the horizon. In the meantime, advancements like BrainSense™ DBS are dramatically improving the lives of individuals like Brandan Mehaffie, allowing them to reclaim their independence and pursue activities they love.

Navigating Parkinson’s Care in the Philadelphia Area: A Local Resource Guide

Given my background in healthcare advocacy, and understanding the complexities of navigating neurological conditions, if you or a loved one in the Philadelphia metropolitan area is facing a Parkinson’s diagnosis, here are three types of local professionals you should consider consulting:

Movement Disorder Specialists:

These neurologists specialize in Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. Gaze for a physician board-certified in neurology with fellowship training in movement disorders. They should have extensive experience diagnosing and managing Parkinson’s, and be knowledgeable about the latest treatment options, including DBS. Consider specialists affiliated with leading academic medical centers like Penn Medicine or Jefferson Health.

Neuropsychologists:

Parkinson’s can affect cognitive function, leading to challenges with memory, attention, and executive function. A neuropsychologist can conduct comprehensive cognitive assessments to identify these issues and develop strategies to manage them. Seek a neuropsychologist with specific experience working with Parkinson’s patients.

Physical and Occupational Therapists specializing in Neurological Rehabilitation:

These therapists play a crucial role in maintaining mobility, balance, and independence. Look for therapists with specialized training in Parkinson’s-specific exercises and techniques, such as LSVT BIG and PWR!Moves. They can help patients improve their gait, coordination, and daily living skills.

Ready to find trusted professionals? Browse our complete directory of top-rated neurologists and healthcare experts in the Philadelphia area today.