
Pediatric Movement Disorders
The Hesitant Starts and the Difficult Stops:
Movement disorders are a group of neurological conditions that affects a child’s movements. It can be a problem in the ability to move their body (speed, quality, and control). There are numerous causes for these disorders including injuries, genetic conditions, medications, and infections.
Simply put, movement disorders can be classified as either an excess of movement (Hyperkinetic) or a paucity of voluntary and automatic movements (Hypokinetic). Both of which is not related to weakness or spasticity.
Movement disorders do not usually occur during sleep.
Some movement disorders are benign, while others can be severe. Some movements are triggered by stress, while others have physiological causes. Some movements disappear over time, while others may become more severe.
by: Katrina Irene Manibog, MD
Last edited: January 18, 2025
Hyperkinetic Movement Disorders are too much movement that tend to be involuntary or may be temporarily suppressible:
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Chorea
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Tics/ Tourette’s Syndrome
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Dyskinesia
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Dystonia
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Myoclonus
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Tremors
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Stereotypies
Hypokinetic Movement Disorders causes "slowness" or difficulty moving:
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Parkinsonism
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Cataplexy and drop attacks
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Catatonia
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Hypothyroid slowness
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Rigidity
Movement disorders may be a manifestation of another condition or may be the primary illness. Some medications can help improve voluntary movement, but it is important to determine the cause of the problem. Extensive testing may be needed in order to investigate however, a detailed history of the condition, description of the movement problem and family history of similar illnesses can help determine the cause. Specialists in movement disorders may be necessary.
If a movement disorder interferes with a child's ability to function at home or at school, it's important to seek medical help.