Transforming Movement Disorder Treatment with Integrative Medicine at AHN

At AHN Neuroscience Institute, movement disorder specialists provide personalized care that extends beyond motor control and stability. Our integrative medicine approach addresses everything from psychosocial functioning, to sleep quality, and daily lifestyle factors — helping to restore patient quality of life and slow disease progression across the spectrum of movement disorders.

A patient-centered philosophy

Sushma Kola, MD, movement disorder neurologist and director of integrative neurosciences at AHN Neuroscience Institute, is one of fewer than five neurologists in the U.S. with a dual fellowship in integrative medicine and movement disorders. Dr. Kola provides a unique perspective and comprehensive model of care to treat tremors, Parkinson’s disease, Tourette syndrome, and other complex gait and balance conditions.

“With this framework, our focus shifts from ‘what’s the matter?’ to ‘what matters?’ for each patient,” said Dr. Kola. “This approach enables us to algin treatment strategies with patient-defined priorities and support meaningful, functional improvement.”

Streamlined access to high-quality care

AHN’s care model emphasizes coordinated and streamlined management. Initial assessments include detailed clinical history, neurologic examination, review of comorbidities, and evaluation of lifestyle, sleep, stress, and activity patterns that influence disease trajectory.

Patients have access to a comprehensive team of neurology-trained physical and speech therapists, social workers, and dieticians that can help address concerns and optimize patient functioning beyond medication and medical procedures.

“Addressing modifiable factors, such as stress and nutrition, can improve overall well-being and has been shown to slow disease progression,” said Dr. Kola. “The other critical component is time — early intervention greatly increases the potential of effective disease management.”

New patients are typically seen quickly, and our integrated workflow reduces the number of separate visits needed. Following the initial assessment, patients are routinely scheduled for follow-up appointments every three to four months to monitor progression and apply preventive interventions to mitigate complications.

Paving the way for treating Parkinson's disease

AHN Neuroscience Institute is at the forefront of Parkinson’s disease treatment, shaping the future of care for one of the most common movement disorders.

Our team of neurologists is building a novel care path for Parkinson’s disease to map out what optimal care looks like for the disease at all stages. This framework begins with immediate access to an educational and support program connecting newly diagnosed patients with peers and a multidisciplinary care team for disease education and care planning.

Patients then work directly with Dr. Kola and AHN neurologists to build individualized treatment strategies. With strong evidence supporting physical activity as a disease-modifying factor, AHN incorporates movement-based interventions, including specialized Parkinson's dance programs led by Dr. Kola, an internationally certified instructor.

How to refer

AHN Neuroscience Institute provides accessible, integrative, and evidence-based care for patients with movement disorders. Make a referral by calling 412-459-6200.