Parkinson's disease (PD) is an illness of the brain that gets worse over time and leads to problems with movement. It causes brain cells, in an area of the brain known as the substantia nigra, to die. Because these cells are involved in the production of dopamine, a chemical that enables communication among the brain cells involved in motor control, their death results in the motor control symptoms associated with the disease.
There is currently no cure for PD. Medications can be used to improve motor function; they may, however, lose their effectiveness over time. Additionally, as PD progresses, the medication levels required for motor function control may cause side effects. If you have difficulty controlling your movements despite having tried several drug combinations, or if you experience troubling side effects from drugs, Activa DBS may be an option for you.