Parkinson’s disease is the most common disease to affect the basal ganglia. Degeneration of neurons results in a reduced excitation of the cortex and a condition called hypokinesia.
Approximately one million Americans are afflicted with Parkinson’s and 60,000
more are diagnosed each year. Approximately 40% of patients are under the age of 60.
Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease Since the 1950s Parkinson’s disease has been treated by removing or destroying parts of the brain: pallidotomies and thalamotomies. Deep brain stimulation is an alternative surgical procedure that is less invasive, less permanent, and yields good results.