Movement disorders are a group of diseases and syndromes that affect the ability to produce normal movement. Abnormal movements are broadly classified as either hyperkinetic—too much movement—or hypokinetic—too little movement.
Movement is produced and coordinated by several interacting brain regions, including the motor cortex, the basal ganglia and the cerebellum. Outside of the brain, the sensory nervous system provides valuable information regarding the speed and positioning of various body parts and spinal nerve cells can allow for coordination of muscle contraction.
Diagnosis of movement disorders requires a careful medical history and a thorough physical and neurological examination. Treatment with medications can be helpful in some cases, but it is common for treatment of movement disorders to also include an exercise program with possible referral to physical and occupational therapy.
