What is Parkinson’s disease exactly?

PD is a neurodegenrative disorder that affects dopaminergic neurons in a specific area of the brain called substantia nigra. The symptoms develop slowly over the years and the symptoms often vary from person to person. People with PD may experience tremor, slowness of movements, limb rigidity, and gait and balance problems.

The cause remains largely unknown and there is no cure. However, there are a couple of treatment options which include medicaitons and surgery.

Dr. Gerald J. Calegan, the doctor who helped launch Baton Rouge’s first Deep Brain Stimulation programme, changed Mr. Castilaw’s life for the better!

DBS (Deep brain Stimulation) Therapy can help relieve the symptoms of Parkison’s disease and essential tremor. DBS uses a pacemaker device under the skin in the chest area which sends electrical signals in the part of the brain that controls movements. These signals block certain brain messages that cause the movement symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

After 10 years of suffering with Parkison’s disease, Mr. Castilaw feels like a new person !

The video demonstrates Mr. Castilaw’s movements before and after his treatment of a duration of 2 years.