Common Types of Movement Disorders | Causes And Treatment

11 Nov Common Types of Movement Disorders | Causes And Treatment

Movement disorders can highly affect daily functioning. They influence our movement, bodily control, and articulation.

Deep insight into these types of disorders tends to help patients and caregivers alike. In this blog, we will discuss what are movement disorders and their types.

We’ll also discuss potential causes, symptoms, and how to test for it. After reading this, you should be able to get a clearer understanding of this complex topic.

Let’s get started!

What Are Movement Disorders?

Movement disorders represent a large class of neurological disorders where the body movements are improperly controlled.

Generally, this may be an abnormal increase in movements (hyperkinetic disorders) or a decrease or absence of movements (hypokinetic disorders).

These disorders dependably result from the functional disintegration of key structures in the central nervous system that modifies movement, including the basal ganglia, cerebellum, and motor cortex.

Other symptoms are tremors, rigidity, abnormal jerky movements, and impairment of the ability to make voluntary movements.

These disorders may be chronic and progressive, and there is a need for a combination of medical, rehabilitative, and supportive management strategies.

Here are some common movement disorder examples:

• Parkinson’s disease — An incurable progressive nervous system disorder that jump-starts involuntary tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and difficulties with balance and coordination.
• Restless legs syndrome (RLS) — This is a neurological disorder that leads to a strong urge to move the legs, which is often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.
• Cerebellar ataxia — Ultimately, the disorder’s name suggests that this brain region, which is responsible for coordination and stability, could affect the cerebellum. Signs can include poor coordination, walking difficulties, and challenges with speech and eye movements.
• Multiple-system atrophy (MSA) — This rare disorder impacts many systems; it affects the nervous system. Movement, balance, and autonomic symptoms — such as blood pressure and bladder control problems

These are just a few examples of movement disorders. There are many other types, each with its unique symptoms and causes, which we have discussed next.

Movement Disorders Types

Movement disorders include a variety of neurological issues that can interfere with smooth and deliberate movement.

These problems start from irregularities in the brain’s network of nerve cells, which results in different types of uncontrollable movements, slow motions, or challenges with coordination.

Conditions like the tremors seen in Parkinson’s disease or the tics associated with Tourette syndrome can greatly affect how a person lives their life.

In this discussion, we will look into what is the most common movement disorder, and how they are diagnosed.

Parkinson’s Disease:

Parkinson’s disease is one of the most common and well-studied movement disorders, and it is seen as a progressive illness that affects the nervous system.

The illness occurs due to the presence of many motor complications, such as tremors at rest, bradykinesia, which is slowness of movements, stiffness of the muscles or rigidity, and imbalance or postural instability.

As the levels of dopamine decrease in the brain due to the death of dopaminergic neurons, movement becomes steadily more difficult.

The condition honors mainly those people in their late adulthood and tends to develop gradually; thus, early detection and management is essential in the elderly population to preserve their quality of life.

Essential Tremor:

Essential tremor is also an easily recognizable movement disorder that most often results in the involuntary and rhythmic shaking of the hands as the primary afflicted region, which also extends to the head and the voice, among other body parts.

On the other hand, unlike Parkinson’s disease, people often notice essential tremors in themselves when they are resting without undertaking any action, or when they grasp an object or hold a pen to write.

Although it is not deadly, it has effects on everyday activities that some patients cannot avoid using medical treatment.

Even though no one knows the cause of essential tremor, families often experience it, indicating that some genetic factors may be involved.

Dystonia:

Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder characterized by either sustained or repetitive involuntary muscle contractions that twist the affected body parts into abnormal postures or repetitive movements.

This mental disorder can affect one region (focal dystonia), more than one region (segmental dystonia), or the whole body (generalized dystonia).

The degrees of dystonia are very low to very high, in that it can be very distressing and disruptive toward the sociological functioning of individuals in its extreme forms.

It is thought to be related to abnormal activity in the neurological structures, such as the basal ganglia, that govern movement.

Huntington’s Disease:

Huntington’s disease is a genetic neurodegenerative condition, which means that the disease runs within the family due to a defect in a particular gene.

This results in degeneration of the nerve cells in the brain, the area that controls the movement of the body, as well as thinking and acting.

Huntington’s disease usually appears at the age of about forty and comes with involuntary movements that more or less resemble dancing (chorea), along with dementia and other behavioral disorders.

All these factors put together, a genetic defect is considered to run in families and therefore those who have relatives suffering from Huntington’s stand a higher risk of suffering from the defect.

Tourette Syndrome:

Tourette syndrome is a disorder of the nervous system that attacks children.

It is associated with such repeated uncontrolled movements and sounds as tics.

These tics can be simple and include such actions as blinking and coughing, or they can be more complex and include actions such as jumping and saying certain words.

The clinical picture of Tourette syndrome is heterogeneous, and although it is often accompanied by conditions such as OCD or AD/HD, characteristically many people with it can lead an otherwise intact life and not be too bothered by their tics.

Movement disorders include a range of neurological issues that can make it hard for the body to move freely.

It’s important to learn about different kinds of these disorders, like Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and dystonia, so we can diagnose them correctly and provide better treatment.

Thanks to continuous research and progress in medicine, there is hope for a better quality of life for those living with these challenges.

Movement Disorders Causes and Risk Factors

Disorders related to movement can greatly affect everyday activities.

It’s important to grasp what leads to these conditions and what increases the chances of developing them for successful treatment.

These conditions encompass Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, and dystonia, among others.

While each has its own distinct features, they often have similar roots. Let’s delve into the different elements that play a role in movement disorders.

Genetic Predispositions:

Hereditary factors are present in many movement disorders, including but not limited to Huntington’s disease and dystonia.

Certain mutations of specific genes are responsible for the manifestations of these conditions.

Individuals who have experienced such disorders in their family will have a higher likelihood of developing similar disorders themselves.

One can rely on genetic testing and counseling to help reduce the prevalence of these disorders by identifying those who are at risk and providing the necessary interventions to mitigate the familial effects of the disorder.

Environmental Influences:

Environmental factors, likewise, can cause movement disorders.

For instance, there is evidence suggesting that exposure to certain toxins like pesticides and heavy metals increases the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.

Concussions, certain infections, and drug exposures can also lead to, or be associated with worsening, movement disorders in the individuals affected.

Age-Related Changes:

The risk of developing some of the movement disorders, namely, Parkinson’s disease, is higher with increasing age.

Since, over the years, the nerve cells in charge of movement decline, the older population becomes more predisposed to these types of disorders.

Consequently, the age factor may also serve to worsen the already existing incapacitating movement disorders by way of changes in the brain.

Neurological Conditions:

Movement disorders are usually seen together with other neurological conditions or as a consequence of other neurological disorders.

For instance, a patient who has suffered a stroke or one who has multiple sclerosis is more likely to suffer from movement disorders.

These conditions affect the normal functioning of the brain; hence, normal control of movement is impaired.

In short, the causes of movement disorders are multifaceted and often involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors.

While some disorders have a clear genetic basis, others may arise from exposure to toxins, brain injuries, or underlying medical conditions.

Individuals can reduce the likelihood of developing conditions by understanding associated risk factors.

What Is Movement Disorder Symptoms?

Let’s explore symptoms of movement disorders, how they impact individuals and loved ones, and understand these signs as a vital first step towards seeking help and effective treatment.

Common Movement Disorder Symptoms are:

• Involuntary movements: These can range from subtle tremors to more severe, uncontrollable movements like tics, spasms, or jerks.
• Slowed movement: Difficulty initiating or completing movements, such as walking or speaking.
• Stiffness: Increased muscle tone, leading to rigid limbs and difficulty with movement.
• Poor coordination: Problems with balance, walking, and fine motor skills.
• Tremors: Rhythmic shaking of body parts, often in the hands, arms, head, or voice.
• Postural instability: Difficulty maintaining balance and posture.
• Pain: Muscle spasms can cause significant pain and discomfort.
• Changes in speech: Slurred speech, difficulty articulating words, or a monotonous voice.
• Changes in gait: Altered walking patterns, such as shuffling or a stooped posture.

It’s important to note that the severity and specific symptoms of movement disorders can vary widely depending on the underlying condition.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to consult with a movement disorder specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How To Treat Movement Disorder? Diagnostic Methods

Diagnosing and treating movement disorders, which affect millions globally with symptoms like tremors and rigidity, is challenging.

Let’s delve into the ways of diagnosing these conditions and making choices regarding treatment, examining the journey towards alleviation.

Medical History Review:

Recently, there has been a shift of emphasis in defining a movement disorder from concentrating on the movement itself to involving a transdisciplinary understanding of the patient.

The movement disorder diagnosis relies on an in-depth medical history.

This entails examining the symptoms exhibited, their duration, the presence of other diseases, and environmental factors like occupation.

In turn, this assists the practitioners in detecting certain patterns and providing a more refined set of possible diagnoses.

Neurological Examinations:

Both physical and neurological examination of the patient is crucial in the diagnosis of particular movement disorders.

These evaluations usually comprise reflexes, strength of muscles, coordination, and movement patterns.

These tests assist in determining which systems of the brain or nervous system are compromised.

Imaging Tests:

Imaging tests like MRI, CT, and PET scans are additional methods that evaluate the structure, activity, and functioning of the brain respectively.

These assist the physicians with excluding other potential etiologies, for example, tumors and hemorrhages, as well as assist in the visualization of functional deficits of the brain, that are secondary to neurodegenerative processes.

Movement Disorder Treatment and Management Options

Movement disorders can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

While there’s no cure for many of these conditions, various treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.

From medications and therapies to surgical interventions, these approaches aim to alleviate the challenges posed by movement disorders and enhance the lives of those affected.

Medication:

The treatment of movement disorders usually starts with the use of medications.

For instance, levodopa is a drug that assists in controlling the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease by increasing the levels of dopamine within the brain.

Doctors can treat some individuals with dystonia using anticholinergic drugs, while other abnormal movement disorders require them to inject botulinum toxins to relax the affected muscles.

Physical Therapy:

Many patients suffering from movement disorders will benefit a lot from Movement Disorder Treatment Therapies, which are very important in the management of these disorders.

It enhances wheelchair mobility, strengthening, and coordination and thus makes it possible for patients to be able to cut down the risks of falls and walk independently.

They also engage the patient in designing a program of exercises that will address their needs.

Lifestyle Changes:

There are changes that one can make in his or her lifestyle that can aid in the symptoms and general health management.

More specifically, engaging in physical activities, taking foods with rich antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, and managing stress levels help in controlling the symptoms.

In some instances, it may also be suggested that exposure to some environmental triggers is limited.

Surgical Procedures (e.g. DBS):

Where medical professionals may contemplate surgical treatment, patients do not respond well to medical treatment.

Doctors must place electrodes within the brain in specific regions for deep brain stimulation, commonly known as DBS.

These electrodes provide electrical stimulation to assist in the control of abnormal patterns of movement.

Healthcare professionals commonly employ DBS in the management of Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, and dystonia.

In short, You can manage movement disorders through a variety of treatments, including medications, therapies, and surgical interventions.

These approaches aim to alleviate symptoms, improve motor function, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions.

While there’s no cure-all, a combination of treatments tailored to individual needs can help individuals live more comfortably and independently.

Note: Finding the right doctor is an essential part of your ongoing movement disorder treatment. If possible, search for keywords like ‘movement disorder specialist near me’ or ‘movement disorder doctors near me’ and you’ll find the results you were looking for.

Living with Movement Disorders

Living with a movement disorder patient can be a complex journey.

These neurological conditions, which affect the brain’s ability to control movement, can present a myriad of challenges, from involuntary movements to difficulty with coordination and balance.

Despite these obstacles, individuals with movement disorders can lead fulfilling lives with the right support, understanding, and management strategies.

Coping Strategies:

Having a movement disorder can be a very difficult experience; however, one can adopt efficient coping strategies that can help in improving the quality of life.

Some of these include mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and psychotherapeutic techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to assist in dealing with the emotional and psychological components of these disorders.

Also, avoiding stress and tiredness could come in when setting consequent goals and organizing activities for the day.

Support Systems:

Support systems for people with movement disorders are extremely important.

Such support may come from family and friends or best movement disorder specialist near me who offer encouragement, help with some activities, and make treatment decisions.

Finding and interacting with other such persons will help in combating sadness or loneliness and even healthy individuals may undergo this through joining support groups.

Resources for Patients and Caregivers:

There exist several resources and services, especially for the patients and their caregivers, supporting groups, treatment information patient education on movement disorders, and many more.

Such services provide education on care alternatives and available resources for such conditions and patients in the future.

Counseling services and respite care that offer short-term supervision and a break from caregiving duties to family members also help caregivers.

To sum up, living with a movement disorder can be challenging, but with the right support and management strategies, it’s possible to maintain a good quality of life.

Conclusion

Movement disorders are difficult neurological disorders that call for a comprehensive level of care and attention.

As such, early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and effective management over time help improve the life expectancy of patients suffering from these disorders.

Knowledge of the types, causes, and management of different movement disorders allows patients and their caregivers to strategize on management schedules that enable one to live optimistically regardless of the obstacles waged by the disorder.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a movement disorder, such as tremors, stiffness, or involuntary movements, it’s important to consult Dr. Vivek Pratap Singh neuropsychiatrist in Patna Bihar.

Dr. Vivek Pratap Singh has expertise in diagnosing and treating various movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, and essential tremor.

By seeking professional help from best neuropsychiatrist in Patna Bihar, you can receive an accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and effective management of your condition.