Disorders & Treatments

Cognitive decline can stem from many causes — from Alzheimer's disease to vascular damage from strokes, to less common conditions like Lewy body or frontotemporal dementia. A thorough evaluation is essential because treatment approaches differ significantly depending on the underlying cause.

Dr. Varela has served as Principal Investigator in NIH-sponsored clinical trials for Alzheimer's disease, offering patients access to leading-edge research therapies alongside standard-of-care management. Support and education for caregivers are an integral part of the care plan.

A pinched nerve occurs when surrounding tissues — bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons — apply too much pressure to a nerve. Symptoms include pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness along the path of the nerve. Common sites include the wrist (carpal tunnel), elbow (ulnar nerve), neck, and lower back.

Electrodiagnostic testing (EMG and nerve conduction studies) is the gold standard for pinpointing which nerve is affected, the severity of damage, and whether the problem is at the nerve root or a more distal entrapment site.

Movement disorders are a group of neurological conditions that affect the speed, fluency, quality, and ease of movement. Parkinson's disease, the most common, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by loss of dopamine-producing neurons. However, not all tremors are Parkinson's — a careful neurological examination and diagnostic evaluation are essential to distinguish between the many causes of movement disorders.

Dr. Varela has experience managing Parkinson's disease across all stages, optimizing dopaminergic therapy to maximize quality of life and minimize side effects, and referring appropriate candidates for advanced therapies such as deep brain stimulation (DBS). He has served as Principal Investigator in NIH and industry-sponsored Parkinson's clinical trials.

Neurology is a broad specialty. Beyond the conditions highlighted above, Dr. Varela provides comprehensive evaluation and management for the full range of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system. If you are experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms — such as dizziness, facial weakness, abnormal movements, or sleep disturbances — a neurology consultation can be invaluable.

Each patient receives a thorough neurological history and examination, appropriate diagnostic testing, and an individualized treatment plan. When subspecialty care is needed, Dr. Varela coordinates referrals to ensure continuity of care.