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Deep Brain Stimulation and Parkinson’ s
In the months following DBS, you gradually return to regular life. You can do nearly everything with DBS that you did without it. Some people say they are more active after DBS because their symptoms are better controlled. Make sure to check with your DBS team before doing anything for the first time with DBS.
Day-to-Day Activities
Consider these general guidelines for daily life with DBS, and always speak with your personal care team.
+ Exercise Once your surgeon gives the go-ahead, you can( and should!) exercise regularly. But avoid activities that may cause forceful, rapid backand-forth movement of the neck or whiplash, or contact sports. Don’ t play tackle football or ice hockey. Don’ t engage in contact boxing, Jiu Jitsu or kickboxing. These activities could potentially damage the device. Swimming is typically okay, but a few people have reported difficulty after DBS. Test the waters carefully. Swim with a partner and make sure you feel safe and confident in shallow water before heading deeper. Avoid pools or hot tubs for two to three months until incisions are fully healed to prevent infection.
+ In the house or out-and-about Your cell phone, computer, microwave, electric toothbrush and other electronics should not interfere with DBS. Metal detectors may go off because they sense metal in DBS, but they should not harm the device. If you feel symptoms suddenly worsen, check your device; turn it back on, if necessary; and contact your clinician.
+ Travel Avoid walk-through airport scanners or metal detectors because they will go off. Ask for a manual screening instead. You can state that you have a“ pacemaker” without explaining what DBS is. Always carry your device information card, personal programmer and battery recharging equipment, if applicable. Don’ t forget adapters if traveling internationally. Take everything in your carryon, rather than checked luggage, in case your bag is lost.
+ Alcohol Your DBS team may recommend no alcohol for two or more weeks after surgery while your brain recovers. After that, you can gradually resume moderate use, consistent with your intake prior to surgery. But be cautious with alcohol as it can impact balance and increase risk for falls, which could potentially damage DBS.
+ Driving Doctors may limit driving for a few weeks after surgery as your brain heals. But, in general, if you were driving before DBS, you should be able to continue. Be extra cautious during the initial programming period and any time symptoms are not as well-controlled. Some people who stopped driving may be able to restart once symptoms improve after DBS, but always talk with your personal care team. You may benefit from a driving evaluation, where an occupational therapist or other professional observes your reaction time and other factors to determine driving safety and recommend adjustments or limitations.
+ Haircuts Avoid closely shaving hair until skin incisions are fully healed, which is typically two to three months. Careful trimming during this time is okay.
+ Other pursuits You shouldn’ t ride rollercoasters, skydive, bungee jump or scuba dive below 10 meters. Wear a helmet for activities that normally require one, such as bicycling, skiing,