Movement disorders

Abstract

Movement disorders cause difficulty with ambulation. Hypokinetic disorders produce a slow gait with short strides and impairment of balance. The hyperkinetic disorders are also marked by an impairment of balance, caused by rapid or uncontrollable movements of the limbs or trunk, that interferes with the normal rhythm of walking. The gaits of different movement disorders help the clinician to classify them. Appropriate diagnosis and treatment of the disorder may significantly improve ambulation and quality of life.