Parkinson’s
Disease
Exploring an Alternative, Brain-Based Approach for Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, coordination, and overall brain function. While there is currently no cure, many patients are able to manage symptoms and maintain quality of life with appropriate care.
At Brain Treatment Center Newport Beach, we offer an individualized, non-invasive approach called MeRT® (Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy).
In Parkinson’s disease, certain neurons in the brain gradually deteriorate — particularly those responsible for producing dopamine, a chemical essential for smooth, coordinated movement. As dopamine levels decline, changes in brain signaling can contribute to tremors, stiffness, slowed movement, and other symptoms associated with the condition.
Traditional treatment often focuses on medications that help replace or mimic dopamine. MeRT takes a different approach. Using EEG-guided neuromodulation, we evaluate patterns of brain activity and determine whether a personalized stimulation protocol may support healthier brain communication and functional regulation.
Treatment is delivered in an outpatient setting and is medication-free. Outcomes vary by individual.
Common Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease affects both movement and non-motor functions of the brain. Symptoms can vary by person and often develop gradually over time.
Movement-related symptoms may include:
- Tremors, often beginning in one hand, arm, or leg — even at rest
- Muscle stiffness and rigidity
- Slowed or impaired movement (simple tasks take longer)
- Shortened or shuffling steps
- Balance problems or stooped posture
- Reduced facial expression (less blinking or smiling)
- Changes in speech (monotone, slurred, faster or slower than usual)
- Difficulty with writing
- Problems with chewing, swallowing, or breathing as the disease progresses
Non-motor symptoms may include:
- Depression, anxiety, or fear
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or daytime sleepiness)
- Fatigue
- Constipation or digestive slowing
- Bladder or urinary changes
- Blood pressure drops when standing
- Reduced sense of smell
- Generalized or localized pain
- Cognitive changes in later stages, including dementia (Lewy body dementia is common)
What Causes Parkinson's?
The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is not fully understood. Both genetic and environmental factors may contribute.
Certain rare gene mutations are associated with Parkinson’s, particularly when multiple family members are affected. Long-term exposure to environmental toxins such as herbicides or pesticides has also been studied as a possible risk factor.
Conventional Treatment Approaches
Parkinson’s treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms.
Most medications work by increasing dopamine activity in the brain or mimicking its effects. Over time, however, these medications may become less consistent and can carry side effects, including hallucinations or mood changes.
Other treatment options may include:
Infused medications delivered directly to the intestine
Injectable or patch-based medications
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery, which involves implanting electrodes in the brain to help regulate abnormal signals
While these treatments can help manage symptoms, they do not stop disease progression.
Parkinson's and MeRT
At Brain Treatment Center Newport Beach, we offer MeRT® (Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy) as a personalized neuromodulation approach for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
MeRT evolved from rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation), a technology that uses magnetic fields delivered through a coil placed on the scalp to influence brain activity. While rTMS typically delivers stimulation to a single area of the brain at a fixed frequency, MeRT incorporates diagnostic testing to individualize treatment based on each patient’s unique brain patterns.
Before treatment begins, we perform a quantitative EEG (qEEG) and EKG to assess brainwave activity and neural timing. This data helps guide decisions about stimulation frequency, location, and intensity.
The neuromodulation equipment used in the MeRT protocol is FDA-cleared for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder and OCD. In clinical practice, it may also be used off-label for other neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s disease.
Treatment is non-invasive and performed in an outpatient setting.
What to Expect
A typical Parkinson’s treatment program lasts approximately 4–6 weeks, with sessions scheduled Monday through Friday. Each session lasts about 30–45 minutes.
MeRT can be performed alongside other therapies your physician may recommend. Because every patient’s condition and brain patterns differ, outcomes vary by individual.
Insurance and Payment Options
Brain Treatment Center Newport Beach is considered out-of-network with most insurance plans.
While we do not submit claims on your behalf, we can provide detailed documentation at the completion of treatment that you may submit directly to your insurance carrier to request possible reimbursement. Coverage varies by plan and diagnosis.
rTMS is FDA-approved for Major Depressive Disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. When used for other conditions, it is considered off-label, and insurance reimbursement is uncommon. Some patients have reported partial reimbursement for diagnostic testing such as qEEG or clinical evaluations, depending on their individual benefits.
Please note that we are unable to treat patients with Medicare or Medicaid.
Payment Options
We accept all major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
CareCredit® is also available as a financing option. CareCredit is a third-party healthcare credit provider that may offer promotional financing options, including deferred interest plans for qualified applicants. Approval and terms are determined directly by CareCredit.
Our New Patient Coordinator is available to discuss financial questions and help you understand your options.
Contact Our New Patient
Coordinator for more Information
It’s normal for patients and their families affected by brain disorders to feel uncertain about treatment options and what is best. MeRT is a treatment protocol that has helped patients restore their brain function, reclaim their lives, and get a whole new lease on life.
Our goal is to help guide you through the process so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not MeRT is the right treatment for you or your child. Our clinicians and technicians are passionate about helping you to heal.
The New Patient Coordinator is available to answer any questions that you may have about how MeRT can help you specifically. She’ll take the time to listen to your concerns and put your mind at ease. She can also assist in getting you scheduled with the clinic should you decide to move forward with treatment.
Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Learn More
(949) 418-1108
Or fill out the Contact Form below and we will contact you.
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