Living with Parkinson's: Hosts of Movers and Shakers share personal experiences with Parkinson's, focusing on treatments like a massage gun for dystonia and the challenges of accessing new therapies. Their candid discussions foster community support and highlight the journey of living with the condition.
In this episode of the Movers and Shakers podcast, the hosts share personal challenges with Parkinson's, including dealing with dystonia and seeking new treatment options. One guest discusses how a massage gun has helped alleviate discomfort, while another expresses frustration over the limited availability of a new pump for treatment. The conversation highlights the ups and downs of living with Parkinson's, the importance of community support, and the hope offered by emerging treatments, despite the challenges faced in accessing them. This light-hearted yet insightful discussion reminds listeners that they are not alone in their struggles and that there are resources and personal solutions that can make life more comfortable.
Neurological Innovations: Focused ultrasound is a new, less invasive method for treating Parkinson's by creating small burns in the brain to help manage symptoms, offering hope for patients looking for alternatives to deep brain stimulation.
Recent advancements in treating Parkinson's disease include a method called focused ultrasound, which targets specific areas of the brain using ultrasound waves to create tiny burns. This approach aims to adjust malfunctioning brain circuits that cause symptoms such as tremors and rigidity, providing a less invasive alternative to deep brain stimulation (DBS). Patients have shared their experiences with various therapies, highlighting that a combination of physical activities and procedures can greatly improve their quality of life, allowing for more normalcy and social interactions. The exciting potential for focused ultrasound presents hope in managing symptoms for those not wanting to undergo traditional methods like DBS, revealing a shift towards innovative solutions in neurology.
Brain Treatment Methods: DBS and focused ultrasound are two techniques for treating brain disorders. DBS adjusts electrical signals to disrupt issues, while focused ultrasound precisely burns specific brain areas to eliminate symptoms. Focused ultrasound is less invasive but requires precise targeting as it offers no chance to reverse the treatment once applied.
There are two advanced methods for treating movement disorders in the brain: Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) and focused ultrasound. DBS involves implanting an electrode to disrupt problematic brain signals, which can be adjusted as needed. In contrast, focused ultrasound precisely burns tiny parts of the brain without needing any incisions. This method is less invasive and uses MRI technology to ensure accuracy. While focused ultrasound can seem daunting since it permanently destroys brain tissue, it’s effective for eliminating tremors or other troubling symptoms. The key is the precision of targeting; once the treatment is applied, it cannot be undone, highlighting the need for meticulous technique and understanding of where to focus the energy. Ultimately, both approaches offer promising solutions, but they operate on very different principles of intervention, offering either a reversible modulation of brain activity or precise, irreversible treatment of problematic areas.
Tremor Treatments: Focused ultrasound offers a promising, less invasive treatment for tremors in Parkinson's patients, specifically those with asymmetric symptoms. It's important for doctors to have various treatment options available for effective patient care.
Treatment for tremors can vary based on the underlying condition, such as essential tremor or Parkinson's disease. Focused ultrasound offers a new approach that targets specific brain areas to reduce tremors. Currently, it shows promise for Parkinson's patients with mainly tremor symptoms on one side. Unlike deep brain stimulation, it avoids invasive wiring, making it a potentially easier option. This treatment isn't for everyone, and ongoing research may expand its use. Specialists believe having multiple treatment options, like focused ultrasound alongside existing methods, can maximize benefits for patients, as different symptoms require different tools to effectively manage their condition.
Brain Treatment Advances: Deep brain stimulation and focused ultrasound are advanced, precise techniques for treating brain disorders. Focused ultrasound uses sound waves for immediate treatment feedback, improving patient outcomes compared to older methods.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) and focused ultrasound are advanced techniques for treating Parkinson's disease and other brain conditions. While DBS has a long history of effectiveness, focused ultrasound is newer and relies on ultrasound waves to create lesions in targeted areas. Both use MRI for precise targeting, making them safer than past methods. DBS requires careful consideration of which brain side to treat, whereas focused ultrasound does not interfere with existing DBS equipment. Focused ultrasound offers immediate feedback unlike gamma knife treatments, which have delays in assessing effectiveness. As we gather more knowledge about brain structures and their functions, treatments are becoming more refined and targeted, leading to better outcomes for patients.
Transformative Treatment: Ian King's experience with focused ultrasound treatment drastically improved his quality of life, allowing him to return to social activities and hobbies like golf. The procedure is cost-effective compared to traditional options and should be available to all NHS patients.
Ian King, who suffered from tremors that severely affected his life, underwent a new operation using focused ultrasound technology. Initially apprehensive, he found the experience with the medical staff reassuring. Months later, Ian reported significant improvements in his quality of life, allowing him to socialize and play golf again. This procedure costs about £12,000, significantly less than traditional DBS treatment, which costs over £25,000. More importantly, it can reduce care needs and help patients return to work, making it a cost-effective option for the NHS. The doctor advocates for wider access to this treatment for NHS patients, emphasizing that it can transform lives and should not be restricted to those who can afford private care. Ian's transformation highlights the operation's potential to restore normalcy and happiness, reinforcing the need for better resource allocation in healthcare.
Treatment Options: Treatment options for movement disorders vary, with focused ultrasound offering simplicity and DBS providing adaptability. Patient choice is essential in deciding the right approach, respecting both historical and modern therapies.
Advancements in treatment options for movement disorders like focused ultrasound and deep brain stimulation (DBS) highlight different benefits and drawbacks. Focused ultrasound is less invasive but can still have significant risks and limitations, particularly with bilateral conditions. DBS allows for adjustable and personalized treatment but requires more maintenance. Ultimately, patient choice is crucial, and it's important to consider the history of both lesioning and neuromodulation therapies in finding the right approach for individual cases. Patients may prefer the simplicity of focused ultrasound, while others might benefit more from the adaptability of DBS. Balancing these options means respecting the past while embracing new technologies.
DBS vs. Alternatives: Comparing DBS and lesions reveals that while DBS has benefits, it carries risks like infections. New treatments, such as ultrasound therapy, show promise for neurological conditions, highlighting the need for continued research and innovation in effective therapies.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) and other treatments like lesions are being carefully compared for treating neurological and mental health issues. While DBS can be effective, it has risks like infection which may require removing the device, stopping the therapy. On the other hand, lesions may offer immediate relief with lower infection risks. New techniques using ultrasound may show promise for treating conditions like Parkinson's and severe mental disorders. Although DBS is more established, researchers are excited about alternatives like ultrasound therapy. Many people in the discussion showed interest in trying new treatments, emphasizing the importance of innovation in the medical field to improve patient outcomes. Finding the best therapy often involves weighing the benefits against the risks of each option.
Patient Empowerment: Ethical improvements have enhanced patient care, but challenges like long wait times and lack of information persist, highlighting the need for better support in chronic disease management.
Ethical standards in medical treatment have significantly improved since the 1960s, particularly regarding informed consent. Patients are more empowered to seek advanced therapies, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS), and are motivated not just for personal relief, but for the benefit of future patients. However, the healthcare system still faces challenges, including long wait times to see specialists and insufficient communication or information about treatment options. The personal stories shared highlight the importance of awareness and better access to information in managing chronic conditions like Parkinson's disease. Patients and caregivers often feel they have to learn about treatment options on their own, indicating a need for more support and educational resources in healthcare.
Sharing Knowledge: Sharing knowledge about Parkinson's is essential. People benefit from more information about activities and resources to improve their well-being, rather than just a focus on positivity from doctors.
It's important for people to share more information about living with conditions like Parkinson's. Many individuals, including the narrator, have discovered beneficial activities like swimming and table tennis that help improve their well-being. Unfortunately, healthcare providers often only recommend remaining positive without providing further guidance. More education and communication are needed to support those affected by Parkinson's and their families. Organizations like Parkinson's UK and others play a vital role in providing assistance. People may feel lost without this information, so spreading knowledge and encouragement can help better the situation for everyone involved. Positive support and helpful resources can make a significant difference in managing health conditions, ultimately leading to a better quality of life for individuals living with Parkinson's disease.
Targeted Ultrasound
Recent Episodes from Movers and Shakers: a podcast about life with Parkinson's
Targeted Ultrasound
Targeted ultrasound might sound like something a Bond villain would use to incinerate a Swiss canton, but, in reality, it could be the next big, breakthrough Parkinson's treatment. On today's episode, the Movers & Shakers gather in the Notting Hill pub to discuss this new therapy and are joined in that undertaking by returning guest Professor Ludwic Zrinzo, an expert in both this technique as well as its main rival, Deep Brain Stimulation (so expert that he had the honour of performing Gillian's procedure). Is this a less invasive alternative to DBS? Or are we some way away from this being offered on the NHS?
This episode was generously sponsored by Purdy & Figg. For 50% off your first starter kit, as well as a free bottle for life and cloth, click here.
Presented by Rory Cellan-Jones, Gillian Lacey-Solymar, Mark Mardell, Paul Mayhew-Archer, Sir Nicholas Mostyn and Jeremy Paxman.
Produced and edited by Nick Hilton for Podot.
Sound mixing by Ewan Cameron.
Music by Alex Stobbs.
Artwork by Till Lukat.
PR by Sally Jones.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Music
If music be the food of love (or, given we're in the pub, "the love of food"), play on. On this week's Movers and Shakers, the gang have gathered to discuss music, and the many ways it can impact the Parky community. From vocal warm-ups and singing helping to bring back Mark's booming voice, through to dance and gesture exercise keeping you fit and lyric translations keeping you brainy, music can have a huge impact. The team are joined in the pub by opera singer Bibi Heal (who gives a very special performance) along with the team from Neuro Heroes.
Presented by Rory Cellan-Jones, Gillian Lacey-Solymar, Mark Mardell, Paul Mayhew-Archer, Sir Nicholas Mostyn and Jeremy Paxman.
Produced and edited by Nick Hilton for Podot.
Sound mixing by Ewan Cameron.
Music by Alex Stobbs.
Artwork by Till Lukat.
PR by Sally Jones.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Enzyme Blockers
Every hero needs a sidekick: Batman and Robin, the Lone Ranger and Tonto, Ronald McDonald and Grimace. And, in Parkinson's world, if Levodopa is the crime-fighting vigilante, then enzyme blockers (or inhibitors) are keeping the seats warm in the Batmobile. To discuss the vital role that this group of drugs play, the Movers and Shakers are joined in the pub by Professor Peter Jenner, a pharmacological expert, and Lynn Guldin, a new PhD student looking into Parkinson's treatments.
Presented by Rory Cellan-Jones, Gillian Lacey-Solymar, Mark Mardell, Paul Mayhew-Archer, Sir Nicholas Mostyn and Jeremy Paxman.
Produced and edited by Nick Hilton for Podot.
Sound mixing by Ewan Cameron.
Music by Alex Stobbs.
Artwork by Till Lukat.
PR by Sally Jones.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We Will Survive!
Pour yourself a drink and pull up a chair: the Movers and Shakers are back in the pub! To open our fourth (yes, fourth – we can hardly believe it either) season, the gang gather to discuss their summer holidays – from Scottish ping pong to Alpine dystonia – and make a big announcement. Whilst pretending to be on their jollies, Gillian and Mark have been leading the charge with a brand new music video extravaganza, a Parky version of Gloria Gaynor's 'I Will Survive'. In addition to all this, we're joined at the boozer by Rowan Wathes, Associate Director of Policy & Health Strategy at Parkinson's UK, and Dr Kevin McFarthing from the Cure Parkinson's research committee. They'll guide you through the latest Parky news, from petitioning government to clinical trial breakthroughs!
Presented by Rory Cellan-Jones, Gillian Lacey-Solymar, Mark Mardell, Paul Mayhew-Archer, Sir Nicholas Mostyn and Jeremy Paxman.
Produced and edited by Nick Hilton for Podot.
Additional production by Leon Radschinski-Gorman.
Sound mixing by Ewan Cameron.
Music by Alex Stobbs.
Artwork by Till Lukat.
PR by Sally Jones.
For more additional information about the show, as well as extra resources and exclusive content, please visit MOVERSANDSHAKERSPODCAST.COM
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Parky Profiles: Dave Clark
For our final Parky Profile of this summer mini-series, we're joined in the pub by broadcasting legend Dave Clark. From launching Sky Sports New to becoming one of the key faces in the success of darts, Dave has been an iconic of sports TV. When he was diagnosed with Parkinson's over a decade ago, it brought back memories of his own family, and the next years were defined by an attempt not just to overcome the tribulations of the illness but also to prevent history repeating itself. His journey from the small screen to the biggest of issues, is inspiring and moving in equal measure.
Presented by Rory Cellan-Jones, Gillian Lacey-Solymar, Mark Mardell, Paul Mayhew-Archer, Sir Nicholas Mostyn and Jeremy Paxman.
Produced and edited by Nick Hilton for Podot.
Additional production by Ewan Cameron.
Music by Alex Stobbs.
Artwork by Till Lukat.
PR by Sally Jones.
For more additional information about the show, as well as extra resources and exclusive content, please visit MOVERSANDSHAKERSPODCAST.COM
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Parky Profiles: Matt Eagles
Our Parky Profile this week is a man who's been riding the Parkinson's wave far longer than any of the Movers and Shakers. Matt Eagles was diagnosed at the tender age of seven, and has had a full-life PD experience, from being a ropey designated driver to finding love on Facebook. Matt is an eternal – and determined – optimist, and his Parky journey is sure to inspire listeners as to what can be achieved with, because, or in spite of the condition.
Presented by Rory Cellan-Jones, Gillian Lacey-Solymar, Mark Mardell, Paul Mayhew-Archer, Sir Nicholas Mostyn and Jeremy Paxman.
Produced and edited by Nick Hilton for Podot.
Additional production by Ewan Cameron.
Music by Alex Stobbs.
Artwork by Till Lukat.
PR by Sally Jones.
For more additional information about the show, as well as extra resources and exclusive content, please visit MOVERSANDSHAKERSPODCAST.COM
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Parky Profiles: Emma Lawton
Our guest in the latest of our Parky Profile series is Emma Lawton. Emma wears a lot of hats (and not to cover her pink hair!): graphic designer, blogger, stand-up comedian and parky! Having been diagnosed at the age of 29, Emma has spent the last decade coming to terms with her diagnoses and working out how to live a full life and check items off her f***-it list!
Presented by Rory Cellan-Jones, Gillian Lacey-Solymar, Mark Mardell, Paul Mayhew-Archer, Sir Nicholas Mostyn and Jeremy Paxman.
Produced and edited by Nick Hilton for Podot.
Additional production by Ewan Cameron.
Music by Alex Stobbs.
Artwork by Till Lukat.
PR by Sally Jones.
For more additional information about the show, as well as extra resources and exclusive content, please visit MOVERSANDSHAKERSPODCAST.COM
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Parky Profiles: Kevin Cahill
For the next in our series of profiles of fascinating folk with Parkinson's, Paul introduces the gang to Kevin Cahill. For decades, Kevin was the Chief Executive of Comic Relief, a role that entitled him dubious honours, like employing Paul to write University Challenge sketches, and convincing Billy Connolly to run round Trafalgar Square in nothing but his God-given fatigues. Kevin joins the Movers and Shakers in the Notting Hill pub to discuss his life, career, and journey with Parkinson's.
Presented by Rory Cellan-Jones, Gillian Lacey-Solymar, Mark Mardell, Paul Mayhew-Archer, Sir Nicholas Mostyn and Jeremy Paxman.
Produced and edited by Nick Hilton for Podot.
Additional production by Ewan Cameron.
Music by Alex Stobbs.
Artwork by Till Lukat.
PR by Sally Jones.
For more additional information about the show, as well as extra resources and exclusive content, please visit MOVERSANDSHAKERSPODCAST.COM
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Parky Profiles: Paul Sinha
In the pub this week, for the latest instalment of our Parky Profiles series, is none other than Paul Sinha: qualified doctor, award-winning comedian, professional Chaser. Paul's journey through Parkinson's hasn't been without its difficulties – to compound things, he had a heart attack at the Edinburgh festival – but over a Diet Coke in the Notting Hill pub, Paul shares his wit and wisdom on living, and thriving, with Parkinson's.
Presented by Rory Cellan-Jones, Gillian Lacey-Solymar, Mark Mardell, Paul Mayhew-Archer, Sir Nicholas Mostyn and Jeremy Paxman.
Produced and edited by Nick Hilton for Podot.
Additional production by Ewan Cameron.
Music by Alex Stobbs.
Artwork by Till Lukat.
PR by Sally Jones.
For more additional information about the show, as well as extra resources and exclusive content, please visit MOVERSANDSHAKERSPODCAST.COM
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
BONUS: Parky Politics (Not) in the Pub – Victoria Atkins
On this bonus election episode of the podcast (don't worry, the politics is over and our Parky Profile series will resume on Saturday!) we're speaking to Victoria Atkins, the current Secretary of State for Health and Social Care. We discuss the impact that the Conservatives are having on the backlog in the health service, the future for neurological provision, and what she can – and can't – promise when it comes to the Parky Charter.
Presented by Rory Cellan-Jones, Gillian Lacey-Solymar, Mark Mardell, Paul Mayhew-Archer, Sir Nicholas Mostyn and Jeremy Paxman.
Produced and edited by Nick Hilton for Podot.
Additional production by Ewan Cameron.
Music by Alex Stobbs.
Artwork by Till Lukat.
PR by Sally Jones.
For more additional information about the show, as well as extra resources and exclusive content, please visit MOVERSANDSHAKERSPODCAST.COM
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.