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If you have Parkinson’s disease, you may be treated by a general neurologist or a movement disorder specialist. A general neurologist treats many kinds of neurological diseases, including Parkinson’s. Movement disorder specialists are neurologists who have advanced training and focus only on Parkinson’s and related conditions.1
Because they have a focus on Parkinson’s, movement disorder specialists have a deep understanding of the needs of people living with the condition.1 Here are several ways movement disorder specialists can help you or your loved one with Parkinson’s symptoms.
Movement disorder specialists are experts in medications used for Parkinson’s symptoms, including the most current treatment options.1
Movement disorder specialists can1:
Some people with Parkinson’s experience “off” time. This occurs when you experience Parkinson’s symptoms between medication doses. “Off” time is more likely to occur the longer you’ve had Parkinson’s.2
Your “off” time symptoms can be motor symptoms, such as2,3:
Some people experience nonmotor symptoms, such as anxiety or mood changes. Brain fog, fatigue, and pain are other examples.3,4
If you're experiencing “off” time symptoms, a movement disorder specialist can suggest medication changes that may help.2
A movement disorder specialist will work closely with your current doctor. They can also connect you with other health care providers who understand Parkinson’s symptoms and have strong skill sets in managing them.1
Your movement disorder specialist can likely provide referrals to1,5:
Movement disorder specialists understand how Parkinson’s symptoms might change or worsen over time. This might include helping you recognize “off” time symptoms before they develop or if they’re already happening.1,3
Working with a specialist can help you be prepared with a treatment plan that can be updated as your needs change.1
A movement disorder specialist can connect you with Parkinson’s research if you’re interested in joining a clinical trial. They are familiar with studies to improve Parkinson’s care and may be able to recommend studies for new treatments or care approaches.1
Certain Parkinson’s symptoms tend to appear or get worse the longer you’ve had the disease.6 These include “off” symptoms, which might not show up until you’ve had Parkinson’s for several years. Tracking these symptoms can make it easier to talk to your doctor about which treatments can help you.3
For an easy way to track your Parkinson’s symptoms, visit MY PD-CARE. You can fill out the questionnaire online or download and print a paper copy. The results will help you talk with your health care provider about your symptoms and possible treatments to feel your best.
If you’re interested in receiving care from a movement disorder specialist, you can start by asking for a referral from your general neurologist or your primary care provider.7 You can also ask for referrals from people you’ve met in Parkinson’s support groups or anyone else you know with Parkinson’s.1
You can also use referral resources from Parkinson's organizations:
You can also try telemedicine if you live far from a movement disorder specialist.9
MyParkinsonsTeam is the social network for people with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. On MyParkinsonsTeam, more than 102,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with Parkinson’s.
Have you or your loved one consulted a movement disorder specialist? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.
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Norma Thorelli, MD, MBA, MPH
serves as an associate medical director for Parkinson’s disease at AbbVie.
Learn more about her here.
Kelly Crumrin
is a senior editor at MyHealthTeam and leads the creation of content that educates and empowers people with chronic illnesses.
Learn more about her here.
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