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Treatment Neurology & Neurosurgery

Corticobasal Degeneration
Treatments

Currently, there are no treatments to slow the progress of corticobasal degeneration (CBD). Instead, individual symptoms are targeted with specific medications or therapy. For example, rigidity and difficulty walking may partially respond to treatments for Parkinson's disease.

Muscle contractions and and twitching may respond to muscle relaxants or anti-seizure medications.

Memory and behavior problems may respond to treatments for Alzheimer's disease or depression.

Other therapies include:

  • Occupational therapy may be used to design equipment that supports the activities of daily living and maintains functional independence.
  • Physical therapy is important for maintaining a patient's range of motion. This may prevent pain and contraction or the shortening of muscles as well as help maintain mobility.
  • Speech therapy may be recommended to improve articulation and volume of the voice.

The UCSF Memory and Aging Center is involved in research to better understand the cause and course of the disease, which has led to counseling, support and medications to treat symptoms.

UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.

Recommended reading

Healthy Aging

Most healthy older adults experience mild decline in some areas of cognition, such as visual and verbal memory, immediate memory or the ability to name objects.

Memory and Aging Glossary

Use this memory and aging glossary to help navigate some of the esoteric terminology including, Agnosia, Aphasia, Gray Matter, Tau, Vacuolation, and more.

Seeking care at UCSF Health

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