Movement disorders are neurological conditions that affect the way a person moves, causing involuntary or abnormal movements. These conditions can result in tremors, muscle stiffness, jerking motions or coordination problems. Some movement disorders worsen over time, while others can be managed with treatment.
If you or a loved one is experiencing unusual movements, muscle spasms or balance issues, a medical evaluation can help determine the cause and best treatment options.
There are several types of movement disorders, each with different causes and symptoms.
Essential tremor is the most common movement disorder. It causes rhythmic shaking, often in the hands, head or voice. Unlike Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor typically occurs during movement rather than at rest. While not life-threatening, it can interfere with daily activities.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. Symptoms include:
The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown, but it is linked to low dopamine levels in the brain. Treatments focus on managing symptoms through medications, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.
Dystonia causes involuntary muscle contractions, leading to twisting movements and abnormal postures. It can affect a specific body part (focal dystonia) or the entire body (generalized dystonia). While there is no cure, treatment options include muscle relaxants, physical therapy and deep brain stimulation.
Restless legs syndrome causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, especially at night or during periods of rest. Symptoms often include tingling or crawling sensations in the legs. RLS can interfere with sleep and overall quality of life. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications and addressing underlying conditions.
Huntington’s disease is a genetic disorder that causes progressive decline in movement, thinking and mental health. Symptoms typically appear in adulthood and include:
While there is no cure, treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Tourette syndrome is a neurological disorder that begins in childhood and is characterized by motor and vocal tics. Tics are sudden, repetitive movements or sounds. While Tourette syndrome has no cure, behavioral therapy and medications can help manage symptoms.
Cerebellar ataxia affects coordination and balance due to damage to the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for motor control. Symptoms may include:
Causes include genetic conditions, stroke, multiple sclerosis or injury to the cerebellum. Treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Myoclonus refers to sudden, brief muscle jerks. These jerks can be caused by neurological conditions like epilepsy or metabolic disorders. Treatment varies based on the cause but may include medications to control muscle activity.
Tardive dyskinesia is a condition that causes involuntary, repetitive movements, often as a side effect of long-term use of certain medications (such as antipsychotics). Symptoms include grimacing, lip smacking and uncontrolled limb movements. Treatment focuses on adjusting medications and managing symptoms.
Chorea causes irregular, involuntary movements and is often seen in conditions like Huntington’s disease and Sydenham’s chorea. Symptoms may include jerky, dance-like movements that can interfere with daily activities. Treatment depends on the underlying condition.
Movement disorders can have a variety of causes, including:
If you are experiencing abnormal movements, a health care provider may perform:
While many movement disorders have no cure, treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Common treatments include:
If you have a movement disorder, there are ways to improve your quality of life:
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of a movement disorder, schedule an appointment with a Banner Health specialist today. Early diagnosis and treatment can help you manage your condition and maintain your quality of life.
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