MOVEMENT DISORDERS
There are several types of Movement Disorders that exist! Some of the most common Movement Disorders our clinic treats are Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, and restless leg syndrome.
Burlington's Movement Disorders Clinic!
At our Movement Disorder Clinic, we collaborate to offer comprehensive assessments, cutting-edge treatments, and ongoing support to enhance your movement and enrich your quality of life.
What are Movement Disorders?
Movement disorders cover various neurological conditions that result in unusual movements—either intensified (like spasms, jerking, or shaking) or slowed down. These disorders affect both voluntary actions and involuntary movements.
Every physical motion, from lifting a leg to speaking with jaw and tongue movements, involves complex communication among the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), motor nerves, and skeletal muscles.
When areas of the brain controlling movement get damaged or disrupted, movement disorders can occur.
Movement Disorders Signs To Watch For
The central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord, along with the peripheral nervous system (which is responsible for transmitting signals to the muscles), is often the root causes of movement disorders.
Unusual movements can either define an entire condition, or be just one aspect among several symptoms or syndromes. These disorders come in different forms and levels of severity. Some may affect specific body areas, while others extend to most of the body. Some disorders affect movements like writing, while others can impact the overall mobility like walking.
Some movement disorders can exist independently as conditions or be symptoms of other underlying issues. It’s important to note that conditions causing a lack of movement (such as paralysis) or weakened muscles (like muscular dystrophy) are not considered movement disorders, despite their impact on mobility. Movement disorders specifically involve irregular, unwanted movements.
Our Treatments For Movement Disorders
Our clinic provides treatments that cover different aspects of your well-being, including physical, mental, and emotional health. The treatment for movement disorders depends on the specific disorder and its root cause.
There are various ways to treat movement disorders, such as medications, Vestibular Therapy, Balance Therapy, Neurostimulation, Osteopathy therapy, lifestyle changes and so much more! Some disorders may require ongoing adjustments to medication doses for effective symptom management.
Treatment plans are personalized to meet the specific needs and symptoms of each individual. If you or someone you know is showing symptoms of a movement disorder, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and an appropriate management plan.
What Causes Movement Disorders?
Movement disorders can stem from various factors, like genetics, neurodegenerative processes, trauma, infections, or exposure to certain medications or toxins.
Examples include Parkinson’s disease, with symptoms like tremors and stiffness; Dystonia, causing involuntary muscle contractions and odd postures; and Essential Tremor, marked by shaking, especially in the hands. These conditions can impact mobility, speech, and overall quality of life.
Diagnosing and managing movement disorders usually involves working together with neurologists and other healthcare professionals to pinpoint the specific disorder and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to individual needs.
What Are The Most Common Movement Disorders?
Parkinson's Disease
Characterized by tremors, stiffness, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. It is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain.
Dystonia
Causes involuntary muscle contractions, leading to repetitive or twisting movements and abnormal postures. Dystonia can affect a specific body part or the entire body.
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. Symptoms typically worsen at rest or during the evening.
Essential Tremor
Involves rhythmic shaking, usually in the hands, but it can also affect other parts of the body. The tremors are often more noticeable during voluntary movements.
Tourette Syndrome
Marked by involuntary, repetitive movements and vocalizations called tics. Tics can range from simple (eye blinking, throat clearing) to complex (jumping, touching objects).
Ataxia
Results in a lack of coordination and balance. It can affect movements such as walking, reaching, and speaking. Ataxia can be caused by various underlying conditions.
Myoclonus
Involves sudden, brief muscle contractions or jerks. Myoclonic jerks can occur spontaneously or in response to stimuli and may affect a single muscle or multiple muscle groups.
Functional Neurological Disorder (Conversion)
The most common disorder second to migraines. Symptoms may include tremors, difficulty with movement, and cognitive changes.
BELOW ARE SOME ADDITIONAL WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU!
No referral required. We accept new patients under auto-insurance and extended health benefits. Please call us at (905) 331 – 9658 to make an appointment or to speak with a member of the clinical team!
Vestibular Rehab
Board Certified Vestibular Clinicians for BPPV, Vertigo, Migraine, Dizziness, Cervicogenic Vertigo, Balance
Post-Concussion Therapy
Board Certified Clinicians in Brain Injury Rehab. Have you suffered a concussion and are left with residual symptoms?
Neuro Developmental
Rehab
Is your child struggling in school and social settings? Determine what the underlying reason is to help them succeed.
NeuroStimulation
Providing low levels of electrical stimulation to modify how your brain functions through neuroplasticity.