Movement Disorders
Movement disorders are neurological conditions that affect the control of body movements, causing involuntary actions like tremors, rigidity, or abnormal postures, and difficulty with voluntary movements. Common disorders include Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, dystonia, and Huntington's disease. These conditions are caused by dysfunction in the brain’s motor control areas and may result from genetic factors, brain injury, or environmental influences. Treatment can involve medication, physical therapy, or surgery, depending on the disorder.
Maine Resources
Central Maine Healthcare - Movement Disorders - Provides specialized care for movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, dystonia, and Huntington’s disease. Their team offers diagnosis, treatment, and management strategies to help patients improve their quality of life. With a focus on personalized care and advanced treatment options, they support individuals throughout Maine dealing with neurological conditions that affect movement.
MaineHealth - Movement Disorders - Provides specialized diagnosis, treatment, and support for individuals with movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, dystonia, essential tremor, and restless leg syndrome. They offer advanced therapies, medication management, and rehabilitation to improve mobility and quality of life. Patients benefit from a multidisciplinary approach, including physical therapy, speech therapy, and support services tailored to their needs.
Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center - Neurology Services - Provides specialized care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including movement disorders, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and stroke. Their team of neurologists offers advanced diagnostics, treatment plans, and ongoing management to improve patients' quality of life. With a focus on personalized and comprehensive care, they serve communities throughout Maine, ensuring access to expert neurology services close to home.
Regional Resources
Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center - Movement Disorders Support Groups - Provides resources and community for individuals (and their caregivers) affected by Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. With support groups across New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine, they offer a space to share experiences, receive guidance, and connect with others facing similar challenges.
Huntington's Society of America - New England Region - Provides information on support groups available throughout New England for individuals affected by Huntington’s disease. These groups offer a space for patients, caregivers, and families to connect, share experiences, and access resources. Meetings are available in various locations across the region, providing emotional support and guidance from others facing similar challenges.
International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society - Helps patients locate specialists within a specified distance, including in New Hampshire and surrounding areas. This tool connects individuals with experts in Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, dystonia, essential tremor, and other movement disorders – ensuring access to specialized care and treatment options.
Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Clinic - Specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. They offer comprehensive care, including access to a multidisciplinary team of experts in neurology, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. The clinic also provides personalized treatment plans aimed at alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life. Patients benefit from cutting-edge research and clinical trials focused on advancing treatments and therapies for movement disorders. Additionally, the clinic offers educational resources for patients and their families to better understand and manage their conditions.
Parkinson's Foundation - New England Chapter - Provide resources, support, and education for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. The foundation offers local support groups, wellness programs, fundraising events, and advocacy efforts to improve the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s. Their mission is to connect patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals with essential community-based services and the latest research advancements.
Parkinson's Foundation - Wellness Programs - Offers a variety of health and wellness activities designed to support individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. These programs include exercise classes, support groups, speech therapy, and educational workshops across the New England region. The goal is to enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being while fostering community connections for people with Parkinson’s and their caregivers.
National Resources
Cleveland Clinic - Movement Disorders Info - Provides an overview of various conditions that affect the ability to control muscle movements. Movement disorders can include conditions such as Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, dystonia, tics, restless leg syndrome, and Huntington's disease. These disorders result in abnormal movements like shaking, stiffness, or involuntary movements. Causes can be related to genetics, brain injuries, or environmental factors. Treatment approaches are tailored to the individual and may involve medications, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Huntington's Disease Youth Organization - Dedicated to supporting young people impacted by Huntington’s Disease worldwide. HDYO provides educational resources, peer support, and advocacy for youth, young adults, and families affected by HD. Their programs include online resources, in-person events, and global initiatives to empower and connect those navigating the challenges of Huntington’s disease at a young age.
Mayo Clinic - Movement Disorders - Provides a detailed overview of the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for various movement disorders. These disorders involve abnormal or involuntary movements and can include tremors, muscle stiffness, or difficulty with movement control. Some of the more common conditions discussed include Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and dystonia. Causes can range from genetic factors to environmental influences, and symptoms can vary in severity. Treatments often involve medication, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgical options. Management is personalized and may require a team of specialists.
Parkinson's Resource Organization - Offers support and information for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their families. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for those impacted by Parkinson’s through education, resources, and community. The organization provides a range of services, including support groups, educational events, and access to professional advice, to help people manage symptoms and live well with Parkinson's. Their website also features helpful tools and resources for caregivers.