The PADRECC is one of the few programs in the country involved in the investigation of the uses of Deep Brain Stimulation to alleviate symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Deep Brain Stimulation is a surgical procedure that involves implanting electrodes in certain brain regions, and relieves Parkinson's symptoms without creating a permanent lesion. Pallidotomy and thalarnotomy are surgical procedures that relieve specific symptoms of dyskinesia and tremor and involve creating a permanent lesion in the brain. Neurosurgical treatments are available for select patients. The PADRECC is at the forefront of surgical treatment options for veterans who no longer respond satisfactorily to medications. The goal of this research, which will be a collaborative effort with Penn's Center for Neurodegenerative Disease Research, will be to effect therapies aimed at the underlying disease process. The PADRECC is actively recruiting patients who are newly diagnosed in the hope of developing therapies that may slow the progression of the Parkinson's are of special interest to researchers in the on-going search for the cause of the disease.Ī basic research program is a key element of the PADRECC, with scientists focusing on the basic mechanisms of neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease and related disorders. Several experimental medications are currently in trial. Research is an important and on-going mission of the PADRECC, as it is the gateway to discovering new ways to control or delay disability caused by movement disorders through testing novel therapies and treatment alternatives. Participation in a regular Parkinson exercise class or a physical therapy or rehabilitation program will help to limit the complications associated with Parkinson's disease. Physical and occupational therapy available in the PADRECC are important in maintaining the ability to cope with the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Additionally, a team consisting of psychologists, a neurophysiologist, nurses, a social worker, and physical and occupational therapists will provide a multidimensional approach to patient care. The PADRECC is staffed by internationally recognized neurologists and neurosurgeons who specialize in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders. Accurate diagnosis is critical because treatments and resources are available to help veterans lead fuller and more productive lives. The diagnosis of movement disorders may be difficult as symptoms are often similar and may mimic related disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. Common disorders include Parkinson's disease, Essential Tremor, Huntington's disease, Dystonia and Tourette syndrome. Movement disorders are diseases of the nervous system which impair coordination and walking, or produce shaking and other involuntary movements.

The Center is renowned for its programs in experimental therapeutics, comprehensive patient care, including the surgical management of Parkinson's disease and patient oriented research. The PADRECC is proudly affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania Health System's Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center which is recognized by the National Parkinson Foundation as one of its worldwide Centers of Excellence and is one of the largest and most comprehensive centers of its type in the U.S. An internationally recognized staff of neurologists and neurosurgeons provide treatment to veteran patients. The Parkinson's Disease Research, Education and Clinical Center (PADRECC) at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center is one of six VA centers nationwide dedicated to providing exceptional clinical care, education and support for veterans with Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders, in addition to ongoing research into the causes of Parkinson's disease.

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