Personalized Movement Disorder and Parkinson's Care at AHN Allegheny General Hospital

Living with Parkinson’s disease or another movement disorder can make daily life more challenging. You may notice changes in how you move, speak, or feel. 

It’s normal to feel scared or unsure where to turn for support. At AHN Allegheny General Hospital (AGH), our dedicated movement disorder clinics and team of specialists are here to help you maintain your independence and guide you every step of the way.

Understanding Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders

Movement disorders are neurological conditions that affect how your body moves. They involve your brain, spine, and the nerves that connect them.

Parkinson’s disease is one of the most common types of movement disorders. Other conditions include: 

• Essential tremor – Shaking of the hands, head, or voice.
• Dystonia – Uncontrollable muscle contractions or twisting.
• Ataxia – Balance and coordination problems.
• Tics and Tourette syndrome – Uncontrollable repeating of movements or sounds.
• Huntington’s and Wilson’s disease – Inherited conditions that can cause uncontrollable movements and emotional problems.

Common symptoms of Parkinson’s and other movement disorders may include:

• Shaking or tremors
• Slow movement
• Stiff muscles
• Balance problems
• Changes in how you walk
• Trouble with sleep or mood

If you notice these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to talk to a doctor early. Early care can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease over time.

Movement disorder care that fits your needs

AHN Neuroscience Institute’s Integrative Neuroscience Program at AGH uniquely combines neurology, neurosurgery, psychiatry, rehabilitation, and supportive services under one umbrella. This approach allows doctors to care for your whole health, not just your condition.

Your care team may include:

• Neurologists who specialize in movement disorders
• Physical therapists to improve strength and balance
• Speech therapists to help with speaking and swallowing
• Dietitians to support healthy nutrition
• Social workers for emotional and practical support

Every patient and movement disorder is different. Your doctors at AGH will take time to listen to your concerns, understand your symptoms, and learn about your daily habits.

“We look at all parts of a patient’s life, including your medical history, sleep, stress, and lifestyle,” said Sushma Kola, MD, movement disorder neurologist and director of integrative neurosciences at AHN Neuroscience Institute. “This helps us choose treatments that fit your personal goals and improve how you feel and function.”

Treatment options for movement disorders

Treatment for movement disorders is personalized. Your care team will work with you to help you create a plan that fits your life and supports your overall well-being.

Some care plans may include:

• Lifestyle changes
• Medications
• Injections, like Botox®, which can help relax overactive muscles and reduce symptoms in certain movement disorders.
• Procedures or surgery, if needed

Not all conditions require surgery or injections. Lifestyle changes are usually the first step in controlling movement disorder symptoms.

AHN Neuroscience Institute is also proud to be leading research, testing, and community partnerships that will advance the way movement disorders are treated and managed in the future. Your care team will talk with you about all your options and help you decide what treatments are best for your needs and goals, including any clinical trials or special testing you may be eligible for.

“We want to expand access to this complete care approach,” said Dr. Kola. “Our goal is to make discoveries and provide care that helps people thrive with their condition, instead of simply survive with it.” 

Advanced care for Parkinson's disease

AGH offers specialized Parkinson’s care through AHN's Cahouet Center for Comprehensive Parkinson's Care.

The center connects you to:

• A dedicated team of Parkinson’s doctors
• Medications to manage symptoms
• Support groups
• Specialized exercise and dance programs to improve movement
• Support for sleep, stress, and nutrition

“We aim to address many needs in one single visit,” said Dr. Kola. “Parkinson’s disease affects more than just a patient’s body, so we provide resources that support all areas of life.”

The center also welcomes newly diagnosed patients to attend the Cahouet New Patient Symposium at AGH. The half-day program is designed to give you connection, clarity, and confidence from the start of your Parkinson’s journey by providing: 

• A Parkinson’s 101 education session
• Baseline physical and speech therapy screenings
• A movement therapy class
• Access to community resources, support groups, and others navigating similar experiences

Ongoing care and support

Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders require ongoing care. Your care team at AGH is with you every step of the way, from diagnosis to long-term management.

Patients usually have check-ins every few months so doctors can adjust treatment if needed and prevent complications. Your care team will focus on helping you stay independent, control your symptoms, and enjoy your life.

Get the specialized care you need

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease or another movement disorder, specialists at AHN Allegheny General Hospital are here to help with unique, whole-person care.

Early care can make a big difference. Learn more or schedule an appointment at AGH by calling 412-359-8850.