Therapy Clinics for Movement Disorders, Neuromodulation, and Intrathecal Baclofen (ITB) Pumps Test

Program Overview

People with movement disorders can experience involuntary movement such as tremor, abnormal posture, slowness, walking difficulties, and stiffness due to neurological conditions. These disorders, which include Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, and dystonia, range from mild to severe. Persons are significantly impacted in their ability to function well and live independently. The treatment is to manage symptoms, provide education and encourage self-management.

Horizon’s Movement Disorder Clinics are referral only and are located at the Saint John Regional Hospital (SJRH) and The Moncton Hospital (TMH). Persons referred are seen in the clinic and are treated by a Neurologist with a subspecialty in movement disorders and a Movement Disorder Nurse. Working collaboratively with colleagues in Neurology, Physiatry, and Neurosurgery we strive for the best possible care and treatment. Our approach to care is aimed at improving quality of life and independence for persons living with movement disorders.

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) at The Moncton Hospital – DBS is a surgical treatment for persons with Parkinson’s disease (PD), Essential Tremor (ET), and dystonia who are appropriate candidates for surgery. DBS therapy involves the surgical placement of a lead into the brain, which is connected with an extension to a small device called a neurostimulator that is implanted under the skin in the chest or in the abdomen. When turned on, it produces electrical impulses that are sent to the brain to stop or reduce the electrical signals and disabling symptoms of PD, ET, and dystonia. For more information on DBS, see the DBS web page at: www…

Intrathecal Baclofen (ITB) Pump Therapy Clinic – Implants and manages the care of persons who have an ITB pump for the treatment of moderate to severe spasticity. The care includes refilling the ITB pump and making dose adjustments as required. ITB pumps deliver baclofen directly into the fluid-filled area surrounding the spinal cord through a surgically placed catheter that connects to an implanted infusion device that delivers precise amounts of baclofen directly to the intrathecal space. Persons with cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, stroke or multiple sclerosis who have tried and failed on oral antispasmodics medication may benefit from ITB therapy. The ITB pump is implanted by our neurosurgery team. Refilling and adjustments of the pump are performed at both TMH and SJRH.

Interventional Neuromodulation for Pain – This includes the implantation and the management of Motor Cortex stimulation for refractory Trigeminal Neuropathy. Occipital Nerve Stimulation for migraine and occipital neuralgia. Dorsal Root Ganglion stimulation for CRPS and spinal cord stimulation for refractory neuropathic pain. The implant is done at the Moncton Hospital by our Neurosurgery team.