Parkinson’s DBS surgery – new balance issues and risky walking behavior after activation/programming. Is this normal?
Hi everyone!
My dad has Parkinson’s and had DBS surgery (two-stage in April). The device was turned on and programmed recently.
He had no balance issues before DBS activation/programming and was walking fairly steadily despite Parkinson’s symptoms.
Since DBS was started and adjusted, we’ve noticed:
Noticeably worse balance
Swaying / leaning while walking
More unsteady walking in the past few days
He sometimes seems less aware of his balance
My questions are:
Is it common to develop balance problems during DBS programming/adjustment?
Can DBS settings cause temporary worsening of balance or spatial awareness?
Could this be due to overstimulation or incorrect balance between sides?
These issues were not present before DBS
His last appointment was about a month ago and he seemed to be doing much better losing his balance here and there but for the past few days it’s been getting much worse.
Thank you all in advance.