Movement disorders

What is it?

In movement disorders, there is a problem in the brain or brain stem that leads to abnormal movements. It may involve too little movement (e.g. too slow) or too much movement (e.g. tremors).

Characteristics

The most famous movement disorder is Parkinson's disease, Nerves inside and outside the brain are damaged.

The condition has motor symptoms such as:

• shaking
• making slower or smaller movements
• stiffness
• reduced balance

However, there are also important non-motor symptoms such as:

• cognitive difficulties
• constipation
• reduced sense of smell
• sleep disturbances
• variable blood pressure
• ...

The most common movement disorder is essential tremor. Patients have trembling hands in certain positions and during certain actions. This can make writing or using cutlery more difficult.

You can also visit our department for other, less common movement disorders.

As neurologists, we can use medication to relieve symptoms.

Latest publication date: 14/05/2024
Supervising author: Dr Aers Isabelle