Conditions and diseases

Movement disorders

Symptoms and causes

Symptoms and causes

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.

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis and treatment

As neurologists, we can use medication to relieve symptoms.

Treatment centres and specialisations

Treatment centres and specialisations

Latest publication date: 02/08/2024
Supervising author: Dr Aers Isabelle