Devices, systems and methods for the targeted treatment of movement disorders

摘要

Devices, systems and methods are provided for the targeted treatment of movement disorders. Typically, the systems and devices are used to stimulate one or more dorsal root ganglia while minimizing or excluding undesired stimulation of other tissues, such as surrounding or nearby tissues, ventral root and portions of the anatomy associated with body regions which are not targeted for treatment. The dorsal root ganglia are utilized in particular due to their specialized role in movement. It is in these areas that sensory fibers are isolated from motor fibers. Sensory fibers are involved in a variety of reflexes that are involved in movement control, and these reflexes can be utilized in the treatment of various movement disorders. Thus, by stimulating sensory fibers in these areas, fundamental reflexes can be affected to lessen the symptoms of movement disorders.

主权项

1. A method of treating a movement disorder of a patient using selective stimulation of a soma within a dorsal root ganglion associated with an involved sensory neuron of the movement disorder, comprising:
positioning an introducing needle into an epidural space of the patient; advancing a sheath through the introducing needle and along the epidural space of the patient to a spinal level having the dorsal root ganglion related to the involved sensory neuron of the movement disorder; advancing a lead through the needle and sheath toward the dorsal root ganglion so that the at least one electrode is disposed near the dorsal root ganglion; and providing stimulation energy to the at least one electrode so as to stimulate at least a portion of the dorsal root ganglion to access a lower motor neuron via a reflex arc in a manner which reduces a symptom of the movement disorder at least partially caused by damage or disease affecting upper neurons.