Biomechanics & Kinesiology

Movement Disorders

A movement disorder refers to a group of nervous system (neurological conditions) that cause abnormal increased movements, which may be voluntary or involuntary. Movement disorders can also cause reduced or slow movements.

Movement disorders are neurologic conditions that cause problems with movement, such as

• Increased movement that can be voluntary (intentional) or involuntary (unintended)
• Decreased or slow voluntary movement

Movement disorders are conventionally divided into two major categories- hyperkinetic and hypokinetic.

• Hyperkinetic movement disorders refer to dyskinesia, or excessive, often repetitive, involuntary movements that intrude upon the normal flow of motor activity.

• Hypokinetic movement disorders refer to akinesia, hypokinesia, bradykinesia and rigidity. In primary movement disorders, the abnormal movement is the primary manifestation of the disorder. In secondary movement disorders, the abnormal movement is a manifestation of another systemic or neurological disorder.