Overview
Movement disorders are a group of nervous system (neurological) conditions that cause either increased movements or reduced or slow movements. These movements may be voluntary or involuntary. Common types of movement disorders include ataxia, cervical dystonia, chorea, dystonia, functional movement disorder, Huntington's disease, restless legs syndrome, tardive dyskinesia, Tourette syndrome, tremor, and Wilson's disease, among others. Parkinsonism, progressive supranuclear palsy, and restless legs syndrome are also related to movement disorders.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Movement disorders are a group of neurological conditions that cause either increased movements or reduced or slow movements. Common types of movement disorders include ataxia, cervical dystonia, and chorea. Symptoms can vary in type and severity over time, with periods of worsening and remission of symptoms. Some symptoms may always be present. Involuntary jerking or writhing movements, muscle problems, slow or unusual eye movements, impaired gait, posture, and balance, difficulty with speech or swallowing, and head tilting or shaking are some of the movement disorders associated with Huntington's disease.
Development
The various movement disorders can develop due to different factors, including genetic and acquired causes. Some movement disorders, such as ataxia, may be caused by genetic or degenerative conditions. Ataxia can also result from infections or other treatable conditions. Cervical dystonia, on the other hand, is caused by involuntary contraction of neck muscles. Restless legs syndrome develops due to unpleasant sensations in the legs, often relieved by movement. Tardive dyskinesia is caused by long-term use of neuroleptic drugs, while Tourette syndrome is a neurological condition associated with repetitive movements and vocal sounds. Tremors, such as essential tremor, have unknown causes but may have a genetic component. Wilson's disease is a rare, inherited disorder caused by excess copper build-up in the body. Chorea, dystonia, functional movement disorders, Huntington's disease, and variations in muscle tone can also develop due to various factors, including genetic predisposition, neurological conditions, or drug-induced side effects.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if movement disorders are suspected when there are persistent or worsening symptoms, such as uncoordinated movements, tremors, or spasms that interfere with daily activities or cause pain or discomfort. Additionally, you should seek medical attention if you experience any sudden or severe symptoms, including difficulty breathing, chest pain, abdominal pain, or convulsions or seizures. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Complications of movement disorders may include physical disabilities that affect daily activities, difficulty with vision, jaw movement, swallowing, or speech, pain and fatigue due to constant muscle contraction, as well as psychological complications such as depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal.
Treatment
Treatments for movement disorders vary depending on the specific disorder and its severity. Some common treatments include:
- Medications: Several types of drugs can help manage the symptoms of movement disorders. Anticholinergics, dopaminergic agents, and muscle relaxants are often used to alleviate involuntary movements, stiffness, and spasms.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapists can help patients develop exercises and stretching routines to improve movement, balance, and coordination.
- Surgery: In certain cases, surgery may be recommended to treat movement disorders. This can include deep brain stimulation or other procedures to target specific areas of the brain.
- Lifestyle modifications: Depending on the movement disorder, patients may need to make adjustments to their daily routines, such as modifying their diet, exercising regularly, or avoiding certain triggers. It's important to consult a healthcare professional, such as a neurologist, for proper diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations.