FAQs: Living with Deep Brain Stimulation

Considering DBS for Parkinson’s? Here’s what daily life might look like

For many people living with a movement disorder like Parkinson’s disease, deep brain stimulation (DBS) can be a big step in managing symptoms. And while it may seem miraculous, you likely have questions about how DBS works and what life with the device is like.

Can DBS help control my symptoms? Will I feel the stimulation? Is it safe to travel, exercise and use household electronics?

While having an implanted device can sound intimidating at first, DBS has helped thousands of patients manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Whether you’re exploring the option or already living with a device, Philip Lee, MD, PhD, director of Geisinger’s functional neurosurgery program, answers common questions about the treatment.

How does deep brain stimulation work?

Deep brain stimulation uses a small, implanted device to send precise electrical pulses to areas of the brain that control movement. These signals help regulate abnormal activity and can improve daily function.

During the procedure, a neurosurgeon places thin wires, called leads, in specific areas of the brain. These wires connect to a battery-powered device called an implantable pulse generator, which is implanted under the skin near the collarbone. Once programmed, the system sends signals that help manage symptoms.

You’ll receive a handheld controller to turn therapy on or off, make adjustments and switch between preset programs based on your care plan.

“DBS is most effective for improving movement symptoms and reducing fluctuations — the ups and downs in symptoms as medication wears off or takes effect,” says Dr. Lee.

Conditions treated with DBS

DBS is most often used for Parkinson’s disease when medications alone no longer provide consistent control. It may also help treat:

Essential tremor
Dystonia
Certain cases of epilepsy
Severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

FAQs for living with deep brain stimulation

DBS can significantly reduce symptoms, but it also comes with an adjustment period.

Dr. Lee answers some of your top questions about living with a DBS device:

Which symptoms can be controlled with DBS?

While deep brain stimulation doesn’t cure Parkinson’s disease, it can improve quality of life by making symptoms more manageable. Some people may also be able to lower certain medication doses after DBS, which can reduce side effects.

Benefits of DBS may include:

Reduced tremor
Less stiffness and slowness
Better control of motor fluctuations
Fewer involuntary muscle movements
Improvements in sleep or pain for some people

Results can improve over time as your care team adjusts your settings.

“Most people notice less tremor and easier movement during their first programming session,” says Dr. Lee. “But additional improvements in walking, hand dexterity and coordination, and ‘on-off’ symptom fluctuations may take weeks or months as your provider fine-tunes your program.”

How soon after surgery does programming begin?

Programming typically starts a few weeks after surgery, once the incisions have healed. Your care team will test different settings to find the right balance between symptom relief and side effects.

Most people need several programming sessions over 1 to 3 months to optimize results.

But once settings are adjusted, many people return to their daily activities with greater confidence and symptom control.

What are the risks with DBS?

As with any surgery or implanted device, there are risks. Although uncommon, complications can include bleeding in the brain, infection, stroke or seizures.

After the device is turned on, side effects can occur if nearby brain areas are affected. These can include:

Tingling
Muscle tightening
Speech or balance changes
Mood shifts
Blurred vision

However, they’re often temporary and improve with adjustments.

“If you have new, worsening or uncomfortable symptoms after DBS implantation, do not try to adjust the device yourself,” says Dr. Lee. “Contact your neurology care team to evaluate your symptoms and make necessary programming changes.”

Can I travel with DBS?

Yes, most people can travel safely. Just be sure to keep your device ID card with you, especially when flying. Let security staff know you have an implanted device and request alternative screening, if needed.

Airport scanners generally won’t damage your DBS device, but it’s best to move through them at a normal pace and avoid lingering nearby. Ask your care team for guidance if you have questions about travel.

Are household electronics safe?

Most everyday electronics are safe, including microwaves, TVs, hair dryers, smartphones and computers. However, strong magnets, such as those in some speakers and induction cooktops, can interfere with your device and unintentionally turn it on or off.

Avoid high-powered industrial equipment and strong electromagnetic fields, which may damage the system.

“If you’re undergoing any medical procedure involving electromagnetic energy — such as an MRI, diathermy, electrocautery or TENS therapy — tell your care team about your DBS implant,” says Dr. Lee. “They’ll need to confirm it’s safe and compatible.”

Are there any physical restrictions?

Staying active is always a good idea, but you’ll need to take some precautions. Avoid:

Contact sports
High-impact upper body activities
Repetitive bending or twisting movements

Safer options include walking, stationary cycling and stretching. If strength training, use lighter weights to avoid strain near the implant site.

Is heat a concern?

Yes. Prolonged exposure to temperatures above 100º F can damage your DBS device, so avoid diathermy treatments, hot tubs, saunas and tanning beds.

Will I feel the stimulation?

Most people don’t feel the stimulation once settings are adjusted. You might notice a brief tingling when the device is first turned on or during programming, but most people report feeling nothing at all.

“For many people with Parkinson’s disease, DBS becomes just one part of their routine — alongside medications, exercise, support systems and ongoing care,” says Dr. Lee. “Over time, it simply becomes part of the background in everyday life.”