Guide To Diagnosing, Preventing, And Treating Tardive Dyskinesia

Deep Brain Stimulation

Deep brain stimulation involves doctors implanting electrodes to specific areas of the patient's brain. These regulate abnormal movements and other responses through electrical impulses. These impulses may also affect some chemicals and brain cells. Thankfully, this treatment is controllable. Patients will have a device similar to a pacemaker under their skin in their upper chest. A wire will connect the device to the electrodes and deliver the pulses at the chosen strength.

This is a common treatment for Parkinson's disease. It is used to ease symptoms, specifically uncontrollable movements. It also reduces medication reliance. These two elements are part of why deep brain stimulation is an emerging treatment for tardive dyskinesia. It may help patients who must still take their medication for other conditions since it can reduce reliance.