Contact Information
For information about treatment of Movement Disorders at West Virginia University, or referrals please contact:
Becky Dewitt, Clinical Coordinator
304-598-4866
PO Box 7821
1 Stadium Drive
3rd Floor WV Eye Institute
Morgantown, WV 26506
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Frequently Asked Questions About Activa
Neurologists and neurosurgeons have used electrical stimulation since the 1960s as a way to locate specific sites in the brain. In the process they learned that stimulation of certain brain structures can suppress the symptoms of neurological disorders such as essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease — a discovery that was the basis for Activa® Therapy.
Activa® Therapy uses two surgically implanted electrical devices, similar to cardiac pacemakers, to deliver electrical stimulation to precisely targeted areas of the brain. Stimulation of these areas blocks the signals that cause the disabling motor symptoms of advanced Parkinson’s Disease — rigidity, tremor and bradykinesia (slowness of movement) or akinesia (absence of movement).
Activa® Therapy can also reduce the amount of the dyskinesia (involuntary movements) that are a common side effect of Parkinson’s medications. In clinical studies of Parkinson’s patients, Activa® increased “on” time — periods of symptom relief and good motor function — by an average of more than 6 hours a day.
Deep brain stimulation is also used for essential tremor and dystonia.
Implantation of Activa® devices is performed by a neurosurgeon with specialized training. The neurosurgeons on the WVU Movement Disorders Team are among the nation’s most experienced in deep brain stimulation.
Treating Essential Tremor
Treatment Options
What is Activa® Tremor Control Therapy?
Am I a Candidate?
Tremor Control Team
The Procedure
Prepare for Your Physician Visit
Find a Physician
Glossary of Terms
More Information about Essential Tremor
Frequently Asked Questions
Patient Stories
Product Information
Related Conditions
Parkinson's Disease
Information for Physicians
Stages of Your Condition
Diagnosing Essential Tremor
Treating Essential Tremor
Managing Essential Tremor
