Subthalamic stimulation improves motor function but not home and neighborhood mobility

Objective: Subthalamic (STN) deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a recognized therapy for alleviating motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, little is known about its impact on mobility, an important component of quality of life (QoL). To address this issue, we assessed the impact of STN DBS on life-space mobility and QoL. Methods: Twenty surgical patients with PD were assessed using mobility and QoL scales and the United Parkinson's disease rating scale, and results were compared before surgery and 6 to 9 months postoperatively. Results: STN DBS significantly improved motor dysfunction but had a limited impact on measures of life-space mobility and QoL. Interpretation: STN DBS improves motor function and some components of QoL. However, motor recovery does not translate into improved life-space in the intermediate term. In addition to a focus on motor function, multidisciplinary attention to increasing mobility may further improve QoL in the intermediate and long-term.