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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 ,