KH . ORG 13 implantable pulse generator that can be adjusted for the best results.” “During surgery, all went well,” Robert said. “I was awake during the procedure, and Dr. Ganz would ask me questions or ask me to move. My whole family came in from Texas and South Carolina to be with me. After surgery, when they were adjusting the DBS, it was like I didn’t have Parkinson’s anymore.” During this time, Dr. Britt retired and a new neurologist took over Robert’s care. Angela Pana, M.D., joined Kootenai Clinic Neurology in 2021 and has helped Robert fine-tune his DBS to get the greatest results. “I always ask patients what is most important to them,” said Dr. Pana. “For some, it might be retaining their ability to walk. For others, it might be maintaining their fine-motor skills. We make the things that are important to them our top priority so they can continue to do the things they like to do.” Abigdifference In addition to DBS, Robert has benefited greatly from the physical therapy he receives at Performance Therapy Services in Sandpoint. “Parkinson’s treatment must be multidisciplinary, with physical, occupational and speech therapists doing their part, along with the family’s involvement,” said Dr. Pana. “Therapists who are trained in working with Parkinson’s patients not only help the patient—they can also give me feedback that is very helpful.” Robert practices a therapy program called LSVT BIG. People living with Parkinson’s or other neurological conditions often move differently, with gestures and actions that become smaller and slower. LSVT BIG improves walking, self-care and other tasks by helping people recalibrate their movements and teaching them how and when to apply extra effort to produce bigger motions. It can help with large motor tasks, like getting up from a chair or walking, and also small motor tasks, like buttoning a shirt. “Robert is very determined,” his wife, Deborah, said. “Last year, his Parkinson’s advanced, and he was having trouble walking. His therapy helped, and he just keeps working at it.” Robert has another love that keeps him working as well. As an accomplished trumpet player, he has performed at numerous local venues and recorded some 350 songs. Even with Parkinson’s, Robert plays two to four hours a day. Awidespreadneed Dr. Pana and Kootenai Clinic Neurology are helping many patients like Robert. As one of the few treatment centers in the region, they see patients from Idaho, Washington, Oregon and Montana. Dr. Pana also manages patients who had their DBS devices implanted at other facilities across the country. “I’ve learned a lot by working with patients who have been treated by a variety of surgeons,” Dr. Pana said. “The care our patients receive here—from our neurosurgeons, neurologists and therapists—is exceptional.” Get your life back For more information on treatment for Parkinson’s or other movement disorders, contact Kootenai Clinic Neurology at (208) 625-5100 or visit KH.org/neurology. Angela Pana, M.D. William Ganz, M.D. William Britt, M.D.
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