Movement disorder treatment
Understanding Movement Disorders
Movement disorders are neurological conditions that affect how the body moves. They result from issues in the nervous system—including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves—and can cause unusual or involuntary movements.
These movements may be slow, rigid, repetitive, or jerky. Symptoms can be mild or severely impact your ability to walk, speak, write, or complete daily tasks.
This page explains what movement disorders are, outlines their symptoms and causes, and details the treatments available at Sulis Hospital.
What Are the Symptoms of Movement Disorders?
Symptoms vary depending on the type of disorder and which parts of the body are affected. Common symptoms include:
• Muscle stiffness or rigidity
• Uncontrollable movements (twitches, spasms, jerks, tremors)
• Difficulty with walking, writing, swallowing, or speaking
• Balance and coordination issues
• Changes in your walking pattern (gait)
Movement disorders are generally grouped into two categories:
1. Hyperkinetic (Excessive Movements):
• Ataxia – Loss of coordination
• Dystonia – Involuntary muscle contractions causing abnormal postures
• Spasticity – Tight or stiff muscles
• Myoclonus – Sudden muscle jerks
• Chorea – Irregular, unpredictable movements
• Stereotypies – Repetitive movements like hand-flapping or rocking
• Tics – Sudden repetitive movements or sounds
• Akathisia – An urge to move or inability to stay still
• Tremors – Involuntary shaking
2. Hypokinetic (Reduced Movements):
• Parkinsonism – Slowness, stiffness, tremors, and balance issues
• Bradykinesia – Slowed movement
• Akinesia – Loss of movement
Movement disorders can result from genetic conditions, neurological disease, trauma, infections, medication side effects, or toxin exposure.
Conditions linked to movement disorders include:
• Parkinson’s disease
• Huntington’s disease
• Essential tremor
• Restless leg syndrome (RLS)
• Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD)
• Tourette syndrome
• Rett syndrome
• Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP)
• Tardive dyskinesia
• Wilson disease
• Multiple system atrophy (MSA)
At Sulis Hospital, your first appointment is a key step in understanding your condition and planning your care.
You’ll meet with a specialist—either a consultant neurologist, consultant neurosurgeon or a consultant in general medicine —who will:
• Review your symptoms, medical history, and medications
• Conduct a neurological examination
• Recommend tests if needed.
Common tests may include:
• Blood tests
• MRI or CT scans
• Electromyography (EMG)
• Electroencephalogram (EEG)
• Nerve conduction studies
• Lumbar puncture (spinal fluid analysis)
This first consultation allows us to:
• Accurately diagnose your condition
• Start building your treatment plan
• Answer any questions or concerns you have
We take the time to understand your individual needs and ensure you feel informed, supported, and involved in your care from the start.
While many movement disorders cannot be cured, a range of treatments are available to help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
1. Medications: Depending on your condition, medications may include:
• Muscle relaxants – Ease spasms and stiffness
• Beta-blockers – Reduce tremors
• Dopaminergic drugs – Improve Parkinson's-related symptoms
• Antianxiety medications – Help with muscle relaxation
• Antiseizure medications – Help control tremors
• Anticholinergic agents – Reduce tremors and stiffness
• Botulinum toxin – Relieves involuntary muscle movements
2. Physiotherapy
Helps improve strength, coordination, and flexibility through:
• Tailored exercise programs
• Posture training
• Movement retraining
• Hydrotherapy and relaxation techniques
3. Occupational Therapy
Focuses on improving your ability to carry out daily tasks by teaching new techniques or using adaptive tools.
4. Mobility Aids
Devices such as walking canes or wheelchairs may be recommended to help you move more safely and independently.
5. Speech and Language Therapy
Supports communication and swallowing difficulties related to movement disorders.
6. Psychological Support and Talking Therapies
Living with a movement disorder can affect your mental health. Therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help you manage stress, anxiety, or depression.
We’re Here to Help
At Sulis Hospital, we’re committed to delivering personalised care. From diagnosis to treatment, our team will support you every step of the way to manage your movement disorder and enhance your quality of life.
If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about abnormal movements, don’t wait—get in touch to book a consultation with one of our specialists today.
Treatment Overview
Combining a calming hospital environment with outstanding patient care so you can recover as quickly as possible.
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Covered by health insurance? Yes
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Can I pay privately? Yes
You’re in safe hands at Sulis Hospital.
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