The ability to move freely and purposefully is something many of us take for granted. For those who experience a movement disorder, this can become a daily challenge. Movement disorders are a group of neurological conditions that cause problems with movement, including involuntary movements, reduced or slow movement, or an inability to move. While Parkinson’s disease is the most well-known, this field of medicine encompasses a wide range of conditions that each affect a person in a unique way.
What are movement disorders?
Movement disorders affect the speed, fluency, quality, and ease of a person’s movement. They are typically divided into two categories:
- Hypokinetic disorders: These are characterised by a slowness or lack of movement. The most common example is Parkinson’s disease.
- Hyperkinetic disorders: These cause excessive, involuntary movements. These can include tremors, dystonia (involuntary muscle contractions), chorea (involuntary, jerky movements), and tics.
A neurologist is a medically qualified doctor who specialises in disorders of the nervous system, including movement disorders.
Focus on Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects a person’s movement. Symptoms develop gradually and can vary from person to person. The most common symptoms include:
- Tremor: An involuntary shaking, often beginning in a limb.
- Bradykinesia: A slowness of movement that can make simple tasks difficult and time-consuming.
- Rigidity: Stiffness in the limbs or trunk, which can be painful.
- Postural instability: Problems with balance and coordination, which can increase the risk of falls.
While there is currently no cure, treatments can help manage the symptoms and improve a person’s quality of life.
Beyond Parkinson’s: other movement disorders
The field of movement disorders extends to many other conditions.
- Essential tremor: This is one of the most common movement disorders and causes involuntary shaking that worsens with activity. Unlike the tremor in Parkinson’s, it is often more noticeable when a person is using their hands to do something, like writing or eating.
- Dystonia: This condition causes involuntary, sustained muscle contractions that lead to twisting and repetitive movements or abnormal postures.
- Huntington’s disease: A genetic condition that causes involuntary movements, as well as psychiatric and cognitive problems.
- Ataxia: This condition causes a lack of muscle control and coordination, leading to problems with balance and walking.
Expert care with Dr Dominic Paviour
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to see a specialist who can provide a comprehensive diagnosis. Dr Dominic Paviour is a consultant neurologist in London with a special interest in movement disorders. He is also the clinical lead for Movement Disorders at the Atkinson Morley Regional Neurosciences Centre. Dr Paviour sees patients with a wide variety of neurological problems and can organise any necessary investigations to get to the root of your symptoms.
Dr Paviour sees private patients at several convenient locations, including Parkside Hospital, HCA Sydney Street, The London Clinic, and One Welbeck. Contact us today to book an initial appointment at your preferred location.
