Movement Disorders
Advanced care for Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, dystonia and other movement disorders.
Movement disorders can make performing daily activities difficult. At Memorial Neuroscience Institute, you have access to the latest treatments to reduce symptoms and improve function.
What Are Movement Disorders?
Movement disorders are neurological conditions that affect the speed and smoothness of movement. They may increase movement, causing shaking, twitches or spasms, or slow it down.
In general, movement disorders occur due to irregularities in certain areas of the brain. What causes these irregularities isn’t always clear. Genetic changes play a role in some cases. Other factors may include exposure to chemicals, infections, head injuries and other diseases.
Most movement disorders require lifelong care. When you come to Memorial Neuroscience Institute, you have a caring team on your side. Our skilled specialists offer sophisticated treatments and compassionate support for you and your family.
Types of Movement Disorders
There are many movement disorders. Some of the most common types we treat include:
Tremor is an involuntary shaking that occurs when muscles repeatedly contract and relax. Essential tremor is a specific type that usually starts in the hands. As the disease progresses, it may affect your head, voice and other body areas. Symptoms can be disabling, affecting your ability to work and perform everyday activities.
Dystonia causes uncontrollable muscle contractions. It may affect one part of your body, such as your eyelids, jaw or hand, or multiple areas. The contractions may cause twisting of that area of your body, repetitive movements or tremors.
Dystonia can occur on its own (primary dystonia) or as a symptom of another condition (secondary dystonia). Causes of secondary dystonia include head injuries, drug reactions and infections. Other neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, can also cause secondary dystonia.
Huntington’s disease is an inherited condition that runs in families. It causes nerve cells in areas of the brain that control voluntary movement to break down. Early symptoms include uncontrolled movements and unusual postures (dystonia). Over time, Huntington’s disease may also affect behavior, emotions, thinking and the ability to walk, speak and swallow.
Parkinson’s Disease causes ongoing and permanent deterioration of the basal ganglia, an area of the brain that controls movement. It usually affects people over age 60. Some of the many symptoms include:
- Slow movement
- Muscle spasms and stiffness
- Uncontrollable shaking (tremor)
- Depression and emotional changes
- Difficulty swallowing and speaking
- Dementia
- Fixed facial expression
- Sleep problems
In Tourette syndrome, people make uncontrollable, repeated movements or sounds known as tics. People may blink, shrug their shoulders, clear their throat or hum repeatedly. Doctors aren’t sure what causes Tourette syndrome but think it may be an inherited condition.
Diagnosing Movement Disorders
In general, there’s no specific test to diagnose movement disorders. Neurologists primarily rely on a review of your medical history and neurological exam. A neurological exam looks at all aspects of brain function, including:
- Involuntary processes, such as breathing, heart rate and digestion
- Muscle reflexes, balance and coordination
- Senses, such as touch, hearing, smell and vision
- Thinking and memory
Diagnosis may also include imaging and laboratory tests to rule out other conditions. In some cases, genetic testing can help pinpoint a diagnosis.
Treating Movement Disorders
Treatments vary depending on the type of movement disorder and symptoms you’re having. In general, they include:
Medications are usually the first line of treatment for movement disorders. There are many types of medications. Our neurologists are experienced in helping you find medications that work for you.
Botulinum toxin is a substance produced by bacteria that has many medical uses. Injecting it into muscles can reduce muscle contractions in dystonia and essential tremor.
In some cases, medications don’t relieve symptoms or may become less effective over time. DBS is a surgical treatment that involves placing thin wire electrodes deep in your brain. The electrodes connect to a device placed under the skin of your chest.
We program the device to send electrical pulses to your brain. These pulses disrupt the nerve signals that cause movement disorders.
It’s common for people with movement disorders to experience depression. Our neurologists screen patients for depression and other mental health concerns and coordinate referrals to Outpatient Behavioral Health for treatment. We also link patients and families to other helpful resources, such as education programs and support groups.
Memorial Rehabilitation Institute offers a range of therapies for people with movement disorders, including physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. People with Parkinson’s disease can also participate in several programs designed specifically for their needs, including:
Leaders in Movement Disorders and Parkinson’s Disease
With comprehensive treatments and an experienced team of specialists, Memorial Neuroscience Institute is a destination for patients and families seeking high-quality care. Learn more about our Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Program and what sets us apart.
