Movement - uncontrollable
Key points
- Uncontrollable movements are slow, twisting, continuous, and involuntary movements of the arms, legs, face, neck, or other parts of the body.
- This condition is usually a lifelong problem that begins during childhood and is characterized by involuntary neck, face, forearm, wrist, and hand movements.
- Home Care Swimming, stretching, walking, and balancing exercises can help coordination and slow down the deterioration process.
- If there are any persistent involuntary movements that are unexplained, you should call your health care provider.
Alternative names
Uncontrolled movements; Involuntary body movements; Body movements - uncontrollable
Definition
Uncontrollable movements are slow, twisting, continuous, and involuntary movements of the arms, legs, face, neck, or other parts of the body.
Considerations
This condition is usually a lifelong problem that begins during childhood and is characterized by involuntary neck, face, forearm, wrist, and hand movements. Facial grimaces along with tongue and jaw movements are often associated with involuntary neck movements.
Stress and activity often aggravate this condition, and relaxation and sleep help relieve the problem.
Common Causes
IN CHILDREN
- Hypoxia at birth
- Genetic disorder
- Kernicterus (excessive bilirubin in the central nervous system)
IN ADULTS
- Drug toxicity
- Degenerative disease
- Neoplastic lesions
- Vascular (blood vessel) lesions
Home Care
Swimming, stretching, walking, and balancing exercises can help coordination and slow down the deterioration process.
Family support is important, and open discussion of feelings is recommended. Self-help groups are available in many communities, and physical therapy should be sought as necessary.
Call your health care provider if
If there are any persistent involuntary movements that are unexplained, you should call your health care provider.
What to expect at your health care provider's office
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.
Medical history questions documenting uncontrollable movement in detail may include:
- Type
o Does there seem to be prolonged muscle contractions causing the abnormal posture? - Location
o Are the arms affected?
o Are the legs affected? - Time pattern
o When did this behavior begin?
o Did it occur suddenly?
o Has it been worsening gradually over months?o Is it present continuously?o At what age did this symptom begin?
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.