Movement Disorder Treatment in Tacoma, WA

If you’re seeking effective movement disorder treatment in Tacoma, WA, look no further. Our team of experienced providers at our specialized clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for individuals experiencing movement disorders. Our neurologists have extensive knowledge and expertise in diagnosing and managing a wide range of movement disorders, including Dystonia, Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, restless leg syndrome, and more. They understand the challenges that come with these conditions and are committed to helping you regain control and improve your quality of life. Schedule your initial consultation today by calling 253-284-4488 and take the first step towards finding relief. Don’t let movement disorders hold you back any longer—let our team of neurologists guide you on your path to wellness.

What Are Movement Disorders? 

Movement disorders are diseases that affect a person’s natural movements. They may include slowed/not enough movement (hypokinetic) or increased /too much movement (hyperkinetic). 

There are many types of movement disorders. Examples of hyperkinetic movement disorders include Dystonia, Chorea and Huntington’s Disease, Ataxia, Essential Tremor, and Restless Legs Syndrome. Parkinson’s Disease includes aspects of both too much and too little movement.  

Spasticity is a special type of movement disorder called a motility disorder in that there may not be enough movement (such as after a stroke), but at the same time, muscle tone is increased causing further restriction of normal movement.  

What Causes Movement Disorders?

Some movement disorders are hereditary while others do not have a concrete genetic link.  In reality, there may be a combination of genetic and environmental factors that bring movement disorders to the surface.  We say that genetics loads the gun, but the environment pulls the trigger. 

How Are Movement Disorders Diagnosed and Treated? 

Most movement disorders are based on symptoms and findings from a physical exam. As these conditions are ultimately electrical/chemical disturbances in the brain, they may not show up on imaging studies or blood work. Therefore, seeing a movement disorder specialist is an important step toward the right diagnosis. Treatment of movement disorders will depend on the diagnosis (see below). 

Common diagnoses treated in our clinic:

Parkinson’s Disease

Patients with Parkinson’s Disease have characteristic symptoms of slowed movements, rigidity and a resting tremor. A reduction in dopamine is the prime culprit of these symptoms.  Medication treatment for PD includes strategies to increase the availability of dopamine in the brain or to stimulate the brain dopamine receptors. In some cases, surgical therapy such as Deep Brain Stimulation, may be helpful. At Puget Sound Neurology, we will work to find the right treatment combination for you to help you live well. 

A comprehensive approach is important to success with Parkinson’s Disease. Exercise is essential to reducing disability. Further supportive therapy with physical therapy, speech therapists and support groups are also very helpful. 

Dystonia

Dystonia is a type of movement disorder defined by muscle contractions of certain muscles. Dystonia is often genetic and mis-diagnosed.  Many patients, after years of searching, have found relief under the expert guidance of Dr. Hogan. 

There are many kinds of dystonia. The most common are called focal dystonia, involving only a few muscles in one part of the body.  Examples include:

• Cervical dystonia: Muscles of the neck
• Belpharospasm: Muscles of the eyelid
• Oral-mandibular Dystonia: muscles of the jaw
• Laryngeal Dystonia: muscles involved in speech
• Writer’s cramp: Muscles of the hand

The best therapy for dystonia involves injections with one of the botulinum toxins (Botox, Myobloc, Dysport or Xeomin). Dr. Hogan was the first neurologist in the state of Washington trained to utilize Botox over 30 years ago. He has had extensive experience using all four of these botulinum toxin therapies. 

As with all conditions that we treat, the optimal response to treatment requires initiation of a comprehensive holistic approach that includes exercise, support, diet and others. (see link to 10 secrets to treatment of dystonia). Before any treatment, however, a complete neurological history and exam to evaluate for drug-induced dystonia or metabolic causes is first conducted.

Tremor

The most common type of tremor is Essential Tremor. It is a progressive tremor that often involves the upper extremities, but can also involve the head, voice, tongue and legs. Essential tremor is often present with activity (action, like drinking a cup of coffee or writing) or while extending the arms (postural). Some patients choose not to treat their tremors with medicines, and prefer using hand weights, stress/relaxation techniques or biofeedback as therapy. For others, treatment for Essential Tremor can involve medical management, surgical therapy and sometimes Botulinum toxin administration.

Movement Disorders Support Groups

Join us for information seeking, singing, encouragement, sharing, exercise, and fun!

All activities listed are free of charge.

Movement Disorders Resources

• We Move Worldwide Education & Awareness for Movement Disorders

Website link content is provided by respective organizations, and are the intellectual property of the respective owners. All information is provided for general knowledge only and is not intended as a substitute for the advice and care of medical professionals. Please consult your physician for personal health problems, new treatment programs, or before starting physical fitness training.