Parkinsonism Treatment

Parkinsonism refers to a group of neurological disorders that cause movement abnormalities like those seen in Parkinson’s disease (PD). These symptoms include tremors, muscle rigidity, slowed movement (bradykinesia), and postural instability. While Parkinson’s disease is the most common cause, Parkinsonism can result from various other neurodegenerative or secondary conditions. For patients seeking world-class neurological care at an affordable cost, India has emerged as a preferred destination, particularly for those traveling from Africa, the USA, and the Middle East.

This article provides a complete overview of Parkinsonism, including its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and the most effective treatment options available in India—such as medical management and Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). It also outlines the expected length of stay, success rates, and the advantages of undergoing Parkinsonism treatment in India.

Parkinsonism is a clinical syndrome characterized by a combination of:

• Resting tremor
• Muscle rigidity
• Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
• Postural instability (balance problems)

Although Parkinson’s disease accounts for nearly 80% of Parkinsonism cases, other causes include:

• Atypical Parkinsonian syndromes such as:
  • Multiple system atrophy (MSA)
  • Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP)
  • Corticobasal degeneration (CBD)
• Secondary Parkinsonism caused by:
  • Stroke
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Brain infections (e.g., encephalitis)
  • Use of certain antipsychotic or anti-nausea medications

Understanding the underlying cause of Parkinsonism is crucial to choosing the right treatment strategy.

While the hallmark symptoms are shared with Parkinson’s disease, Parkinsonism may progress more rapidly and respond differently to medications. Symptoms include:

• Stiffness and slowness of movement
• Tremors in hands, arms, or legs
• Difficulty with balance and walking
• Facial masking (reduced facial expression)
• Speech and swallowing difficulties
• Dementia or cognitive decline (in some atypical cases)

A neurologist typically confirms the diagnosis through clinical examination, brain imaging (like MRI or PET scans), and the patient’s response to dopaminergic medications.

• Board-certified neurologists and neurosurgeons with global training
• State-of-the-art hospitals with NABH and JCI accreditation
• Access to advanced treatments like Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
• Multilingual support and concierge services for international patients
• Affordable costs—up to 60–80% less than in Western countries
• Minimal waiting time for consultation and surgery

For many patients in the early or moderate stages of Parkinsonism, medications remain the first line of treatment. These may include:

• Levodopa + Carbidopa (the gold standard for Parkinson’s disease)
• Dopamine agonists (e.g., Pramipexole, Ropinirole)
• MAO-B inhibitors (e.g., Rasagiline, Selegiline)
• COMT inhibitors to enhance the effect of Levodopa
• Anticholinergics for tremor control
• Antidepressants and medications for cognitive symptoms, if present

In cases of secondary Parkinsonism, treatment also involves managing the underlying cause (e.g., stopping the offending medication or treating an infection).

While medications are effective in controlling symptoms in the early stages, their effectiveness tends to diminish over time. Some patients may experience motor fluctuations and dyskinesias, necessitating advanced interventions like surgery.

India is among the few global destinations offering affordable and highly successful Deep Brain Stimulation surgery, an advanced therapy for patients with advanced Parkinson’s disease or Parkinsonism who are no longer responding adequately to medications.

DBS involves the surgical implantation of electrodes into specific areas of the brain (typically the subthalamic nucleus or globus pallidus interna). These electrodes are connected to a pulse generator (a pacemaker-like device) implanted under the skin in the chest. The device sends electrical impulses that regulate abnormal brain signals responsible for movement problems.

• Patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease or Parkinsonism with disabling motor symptoms
• Individuals who have responded to Levodopa but have significant motor fluctuations or side effects
• Those without severe dementia or active psychiatric illness

• Improved control of tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia
• Reduced dependency on medication
• Enhanced quality of life and mobility
• Long-term symptom control

Indian neurosurgical centers report a success rate of 80–90% in symptom improvement following DBS in suitable candidates. These results are comparable to outcomes in the USA and Europe but at a significantly lower cost.

The cost of medical management is considerably lower in India than in the West. The total cost of Deep Brain Stimulation surgery in India typically ranges between USD 15,000 to USD 25,000, depending on the hospital and the type of implant used. In contrast, the same surgery may cost over USD 70,000 in the USA.

• Initial evaluation and diagnostic tests: 2–3 days
• Medical therapy and observation: 3–5 days
• For DBS surgery:
  • Pre-operative assessment: 2 days
  • Hospital stay for surgery and recovery: 5–7 days
  • Post-operative programming and follow-up: 7–10 days

Total stay required in India:
Medical management only: 1–2 weeks
DBS surgery: 3–4 weeks

Our dedicated international patient support team helps you with visa assistance, accommodation, interpreter services, and follow-up coordination post-discharge.

Following treatment, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy may be recommended to maximize functional independence. Regular follow-up with a neurologist ensures long-term monitoring and medication adjustments as needed.

For DBS patients, remote programming and teleconsultations are now possible, reducing the need for frequent travel.

Patients from Nigeria, Kenya, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and the USA have shared success stories of how timely treatment in India has transformed their lives. Our hospitals offer a combination of compassion, technology, and personalized care that meets international standards.

India stands at the forefront of affordable and world-class treatment for Parkinsonism, offering both medical and surgical options to international patients. Whether you're in the early stages of the disease or considering Deep Brain Stimulation for advanced symptoms, India’s expert neurologists and neurosurgeons provide unmatched care at a fraction of the cost compared to Western nations.

If you or your loved one is seeking high-quality Parkinsonism treatment, contact us today to schedule a free medical opinion or to begin your treatment journey to India.