Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center

About This Program

Our physicians are highly trained in the diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson’s disease, atypical Parkinsonism, tremors, and other movement disorders. We believe in personalized, focused care centered on the relationship between you and your neurologist, supported by an outstanding team of multidisciplinary providers. We are recognized by the  Parkinson's Foundation as a Center of Excellence for our dedication to Parkinson’s research, clinical care, community education and outreach. Our doctors also serve on advisory committees for the Michael J. Fox Foundation and the Parkinson Study Group.

• New patients can expect a comprehensive evaluation and thorough assessment for a quick and accurate diagnosis. If needed, laboratory tests or brain imaging may be arranged. Learn more about Parkinson’s symptoms and causes.
• After a diagnosis is made, we provide ongoing care to help design and optimize medication treatments or collaborate with your neurologist or other physicians. Discover how Parkinson’s is diagnosed and treated.
• For more advanced cases, treatment options like deep brain stimulation surgery may be available. Explore the stages of Parkinson's disease.

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Care

Parkinson’s disease is a condition that can affect different aspects of your life, including mobility, mood, and sleep. We work with a highly trained and dedicated team of specialists that are all focused on helping you live better with Parkinson’s disease.

• A Nurse can help your physician provide you the best care and address concerns about medications and other Parkinson’s-related symptoms.
• A Physical Therapist can evaluate and treat you to optimize your mobility, physical activity, and safety.
• An Occupational Therapist can help you stay active and independent in your daily activities.
• A Speech Therapist can evaluate you and provide recommendations and treatment if Parkinson’s is affecting your speech or swallowing.
• A Social Worker can answer your questions and provide counseling about life transitions, options if you need help with your care, and financial and work-related issues.
• A Spiritual Care Provider can offer support and facilitate positive spiritual coping if you are struggling with your illness.

Other Conditions We Treat

In addition to Parkinson’s disease, we have other areas of clinical expertise that include:

• Atypical forms of Parkinsonism, including multiple system atrophy, progressive supranuclear palsy, and corticobasal syndrome
• Different forms of tremor, including essential tremor
• Chorea
• Dystonia
• Myoclonus
• Sleep disorders, including REM sleep behavior disorder
• Restless legs syndrome
• Medication-induced movement disorders

Research & Clinical Trials

Our team of physicians is actively involved in research to better understand the causes of Parkinson’s disease and to identify new treatments. Since 2013, MGH has been the home to the Parkinson Study Group, the largest not-for-profit network of Parkinson’s centers in North America. As a patient, you may have the opportunity to participate in:

• Clinical trials for new investigational drugs
• Research studies to find new and better ways to diagnose and monitor Parkinson’s disease
• Studies that improve delivery and quality of care for Parkinson’s patients

If you are interested in volunteering for research, please ask to speak with a research coordinator or browse our list of movement disorders clinical trials.

Deep Brain Stimulation

Our neurosurgeons use deep brain stimulation (DBS) to treat patients with a wide variety of movement disorders including Parkinson's disease and dystonias. DBS involves implanting an electrode in the brain to interrupt and stimulate nerve activity. Our center uses the most advanced stereotactic technology, microelectrode recordings, for optimal lead positioning and the best patient outcome.