Movement Disorders

Overview of Movement Disorder

Movement disorders are a group of neurological conditions that affect a person’s ability to control their movements. These disorders can either involve excessive movements (hyperkinetic) or reduced/slow movements (hypokinetic). The movements may be voluntary (under conscious control) or involuntary (uncontrolled).

Types of Movement Disorders:

  • Hyperkinetic Disorders: Conditions like chorea, dystonia, myoclonus, and tremors.
  • Hypokinetic Disorders: Parkinson’s disease and parkinsonism.

Involuntary Movements: Tics, tremors, and other repetitive motor activities.

There are various causes of this disease like genetics, medication side effects, substance abuse, nutritional deficiencies, and neurological conditions can contribute to movement disorders.Once diagnosed, the treatment at Buddhi Clinic involves medications, physical and occupational therapy, Botox injections, or in severe cases, deep brain stimulation (DBS).

Causes of Movement Disorder

Movement disorders arise from a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors.

Genetic Factors

Some movement disorders, like Huntington’s disease, Wilson’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease, have a genetic basis. These conditions are typically inherited.

Medication-Induced Disorders

Long-term use of medications like antipsychotics can lead to conditions such as tardive dyskinesia.

Substance Use

Excessive alcohol consumption and drug use (like cocaine) can contribute to movement disorders like chorea.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Deficiency in vitamins like B-1, B-12, or vitamin E can lead to ataxia, a movement disorder affecting coordination.

Underlying Medical Conditions

Stroke, multiple sclerosis, brain tumors, and head trauma are associated with various movement disorders.

Idiopathic Causes

In many cases, the exact cause remains unknown, particularly in idiopathic movement disorders like essential tremor or Parkinson’s disease.

Facing challenges related to movement disorders?

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Signs & Symptoms of Movement Disorder

The symptoms of movement disorders vary widely depending on the specific disorder.

Ataxia

It causes uncoordinated movements, loss of balance, and difficulty with speech.

Chorea

It involves brief, irregular, and rapid movements that typically affect the face, arms, legs, and trunk.

Dystonia

Involuntary muscle contractions lead to twisting or abnormal postures, such as cervical dystonia, where the neck muscles contract involuntarily.

Myoclonus

It is characterized by sudden, brief jerks of a muscle, often involving the limbs.

Parkinsonism

Slowness of movement, stiffness, tremors, and balance problems.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

It involves uncomfortable sensations in the legs, often relieved by movement.

Tardive Dyskinesia

It is caused by long-term use of antipsychotic medications, leading to repetitive involuntary movements like grimacing or blinking.

Tourette Syndrome

Repetitive motor and vocal tics that begin during childhood or adolescence.

Tremor

Rhythmic shaking of body parts such as the hands, head, or limbs, with essential tremor being the most common type.

Diagnosis of Movement Disorder

Diagnosing a movement disorder involves a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and physical exam.

Physical Exam and History

Healthcare providers assess motor control, coordination, and the timing of movement patterns.

Blood Tests

Detects vitamin deficiencies, thyroid function, and underlying conditions such as multiple sclerosis.

Genetic Tests

Useful for detecting genetic causes like Huntington’s disease or Wilson’s disease.

Imaging Tests

MRI, CT scans, PET scans, and Dopamine Transporter (DAT) scans are used to evaluate brain structures and identify conditions like Parkinson’s disease or multiple system atrophy.

Electromyography (EMG)

Measures muscle electrical activity, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions like Parkinsonism.

Comprehensive Care and Treatment of Movement Disorder

Treatment options for movement disorders aim to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

Medications

Levodopa: Commonly prescribed for Parkinson’s disease to boost dopamine levels.

Dopamine Agonists: Help regulate motor control.

Anticholinergic Medications: Reduce tremors and muscle stiffness in conditions like Parkinsonism.

Botox Injections: Effective for dystonia and essential tremors.

Therapies

Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy: Improve motor control, balance, and overall functioning.

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): Surgical intervention for severe Parkinson’s disease and essential tremors, helping regulate brain activity and reduce symptoms.

Treatment of Underlying Conditions: Addressing causes such as thyroid disorders, stroke, or drug-induced movement disorders can alleviate symptoms.

Why Choose Buddhi Clinic For Movement Disorder?

At Buddhi Clinic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating complex movement disorders with a multidisciplinary approach. Our expert team of neurologists utilizes advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to ensure comprehensive care, addressing both neurological and non-neurological factors for improved quality of life.

Contact Us

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of a movement disorder, Buddhi Clinic is here to provide expert consultations and personalized treatment plans. Please contact us for more information.

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Chennai Teynampet, Sriperumbudur, Coimbatore

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