Discussing Movement Disorders on Health Futures Radio

Last week, Bob Roth, host of the popular Health Futures Radio Show and podcast, interviewed Dr. David Sphrecher, a neurologist specializing in movement disorders at Banner Sun Health Research Institute. They had an in-depth discussion about conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Lewy body dementia, and more.

In addition to the live show, Health Futures is available as a podcast focused on aging, health, family caregiving, and senior care resources in the local community.

Radio Show:

Guest Dr. David Sphrecher and His Expertise Dr. Sphrecher is the Movement Disorder Program Director at the Banner Sun Health Research Institute in Sun City, Arizona. He oversees treatment, research, and clinical trials related to conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Lewy body dementia, Huntington’s disease, and more.

With nearly 15 years of experience as a neurologist, Dr. Sphrecher brought his extensive expertise to the Health Futures program.

Spotlight on Movement Disorders Movement disorders refer to medical conditions affecting a person’s ability to control muscle movement and mobility. The discussion centered around two primary types of movement disorders:

• Parkinson’s Disease: Parkinson’s is a progressive nervous system disorder resulting in slowed movements, rigid muscles, impaired balance, and tremors. It is the second most common neurodegenerative condition after Alzheimer’s.
• Lewy Body Dementia: Lewy body dementia causes progressive decline in memory, movement, visual perception, and behavior. It shares similarities with both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Innovations in Detecting and Managing Movement Disorders

Dr. Sphrecher highlighted several recent advances that show promise for detecting movement disorders earlier and improving treatment, such as:

• Smell testing: Loss of smell can indicate early neurodegeneration associated with Parkinson’s risk.
• Brain imaging: Specialized scans can identify early dopamine loss and Lewy body buildup.
• REM sleep monitors: Tracking REM sleep behavior disorder can predict future Parkinson’s development.
• Clinical trials and research: Volunteer participation is critical for developing better therapies.

Tune in to Health Futures on Money Radio 1510 AM and 105.3 FM or subscribed to the Health Futures podcast to hear more from host Bob Roth and his guests on critical topics related to health and aging.