Hoag Parkinson's & Movement Disorders Program

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. In addition, it's the only program in Orange County that partners with the National Parkinson's Foundation Orange County Chapter (NPFOCC). Founded in 1994, the program treats patients with movement disorders including Parkinson's disease, dystonia, essential tremor and gait problems.

Treatment

As part of the Parkinson's and Movement Disorders program, every patient and their caregiver undergo a comprehensive evaluation and assessment to develop an individualized treatment plan. Treatment usually consists of a combination of medications and rehabilitation therapy. Surgery is also an option to suppress tremors that are resistant to medication.

There are many medications available to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's diseases, most of which work within the complex chemistry of the brain. One of the challenges physicians face in the treatment of Parkinson's and other movement disorders is deciding when each patient should begin taking medication. Treatment must be individualized to each patient's specific needs. The physicians at Hoag are highly experienced in the complex pharmacologic management of Parkinson's.

For rehabilitation therapy maintaining balance and flexibility are two key elements that help patients feel better and move more freely. Both are generously addressed through Hoag's comprehensive physical and occupational therapy programs, which offer targeted therapies in gait and balance treatment, including fall-prevention training for patients with difficulty walking.

Hoag also offers a specialized program for combating the swallowing problems that often accompany Parkinson's disease, and an innovative speech therapy program aimed at improving voice projection and diction.

Another leading-edge treatment of Parkinson's disease, essential tremor and dystonia is deep brain stimulation (DBS). It consists of a multi-electrode lead implanted into the thalamus, globus pallidus or subthalamic nucleus, depending on the patient's needs. The lead is threaded from the scalp area, under the skin, to the upper chest where it is connected to a surgically implanted pulse generator. The pulse generator produces a high-frequency pulsed electric current that stimulates the brain, controlling tremor, rigidity and dyskinesias. The patient passes a hand-held magnet over the pulse generator to turn it on and off.

Resources and Support Groups

Parkinson’s Disease and the Art of Moving
An exercise program for Parkinson’s patients aimed at increasing flexibility, strength, balance, and coordination; improving communication, voice power, and speech clarity; delaying the progression of symptoms; and taking steps toward leading a fuller life.

Time: Monday’s 1:30-3:00 pm
Place: Hoag Cancer Center Auditorium
Parking: Complimentary Valet Parking
Cost: No charge
Teacher: Hoag hospital occupational or physical therapist
What to wear: Comfortable clothing you wouldn’t mind being on the floor in.

**Please be aware that if you require assistance for transfers, you will need to have your caregiver with you during the class.

To register for this class, please contact Hoag Hospital Rehabilitation Services at (949) 764-5645. You will be asked to provide your physicians’ name and address so that a medical release can be obtained.

This exercise program is based on the principles of John Argue. Visit http://www.parkinsonsexercise.com to learn more about this exercise program.

National Parkinson Foundation Orange County Chapter (NPFOCC)
The National Parkinson's Foundation Orange County Chapter (NPFOCC) is located in Newport Beach, Calif. As part of Hoag Hospital's commitment to better serve its community with the highest level of quality care, it's proud to be the only hospital in Orange County partnering with the National Parkinson's Foundation.

NPFOCC's mission is to serve Orange County through patient education, public awareness, care and the support of research. With the dedication and support of volunteers, the NPFOCC sponsors weekly support groups, seminars and distributes a quarterly newsletter to patients with Parkinson's, their families, caregivers and medical professionals.

For more information about NPFOCC, go to www.npfocc.org or call 949/764-6998.

npfocc@yahoo.com

Orange County Support Groups

Huntington Beach

Irvine
Third Wed., 10:30 a.m. - Noon
Lakeview Community Center
20 Lake St., Irvine, CA
949/724-6900

Newport Beach
Coffee & Chat
Every Tues., 10:30 a.m. - Noon
St. Mark's Presbyterian Church
2100 Mar Vista Dr., Newport Beach, CA
949/644-1341

Seal Beach
First Mon., 1:30 - 3:00 p.m.
Leisure World Clubhouse #3, Room #2
Helen Spencer 562/493-2445

Other Groups

Surgical Discussion Group

Caregiver Group
Second & fourth Mon., 3 - 4:30 p.m.
Rancho Senior Center
3 Ethel Coplen Way, Irvine
949/724-6800

Tremble Clefs Coffee & Chat
Every Tues., 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
This is a singing therapy group for Parkinson's patients with speech and swallowing difficulties. Patients with Parkinson's patients and their caregivers are welcome to come.
St. Mark Presbyterian Church
2100 Mar Vista Dr., Newport Beach, CA
949/644-1341

These groups are free of charge. For more information, please contact Hoag Parkinson's Center at 949/764-6998.

For a listing of upcoming classes and events check our Community Education section.

Hoag Articles on Parkinson's Disease
Spring 2004: Managing Movement Disorders