Condition
Parkinsonism & movement disorders
Parkinsonism is a pattern of slowness, stiffness, and tremor seen in Parkinson's disease and some related conditions. It belongs to the wider group of movement disorders, which also includes tremor and dystonia. A neurologist diagnoses these conditions from the history and examination, and sometimes tests, then plans care for each person.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Priya Raman, MBBS, MD, DM (Neurology) —
About movement disorders
Movement disorders are a group of neurological conditions that change how the body moves. Some cause slowness and stiffness, as in Parkinson's disease. Others cause extra movements, such as tremor, or sustained muscle contractions, as in dystonia.
Symptoms
Depending on the condition, movement disorders can cause:
- Shaking or tremor, at rest or with movement
- Slowness of movement
- Stiffness in the limbs or trunk
- Problems with balance or walking
- Twisting postures or repetitive movements
When to get help now
Most movement disorders develop slowly and are not emergencies. Seek prompt help if weakness, difficulty speaking, or a change in movement comes on suddenly, as this can be a sign of a different problem such as a stroke.
This website is for information and appointments. It is not monitored for emergencies. For a suspected stroke or seizure, call 108 for an ambulance or go to the nearest emergency department.
How it is diagnosed
A neurologist diagnoses movement disorders mainly from the history and a careful examination of movement. Scans and blood tests are used to look for specific causes or to rule out others. The diagnosis can take time, as the pattern may become clearer over follow-up visits.
How it is managed
Care depends on the specific condition. It may include medicines, physiotherapy, and support for daily activities. For some conditions, treatments such as botulinum toxin injections are used for particular symptoms. The plan is set for each person and reviewed over time.
Sources
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke — Parkinson's disease
Medically reviewed by Dr. Priya Raman, MBBS, MD, DM (Neurology) —
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Short answers to the questions patients ask most.
Is tremor always Parkinson's disease?
No. Tremor has several causes, and many people with tremor do not have Parkinson's disease. A neurologist examines the type of tremor and other features to reach a diagnosis.
How are movement disorders diagnosed?
Mainly from the history and examination. Scans and blood tests help identify or exclude specific causes. Follow-up over time is often part of reaching a clear diagnosis.
Appointments
Plan your visit.
Share your contact details and the clinic will call you to arrange a visit.