Movement Disorders

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological condition caused by loss of dopamine-producing brain cells. Key symptoms include tremor (usually starting on one side), slowness of movement (bradykinesia), muscle stiffness, and balance problems. Diagnosis is clinical—made by a neurologist based on symptoms and examination. There's no definitive test, but brain scans may help rule out other conditions.

Essential tremor typically occurs during movement (action tremor), affects both hands equally, may involve the head and voice, and often improves with alcohol. Parkinson's tremor usually occurs at rest, starts on one side, and is associated with other symptoms like slowness and stiffness. A neurologist can distinguish between these conditions through careful examination.

Treatment includes medications that replace or mimic dopamine (levodopa/carbidopa, dopamine agonists), medications that slow dopamine breakdown (MAO-B inhibitors, COMT inhibitors), and medications for specific symptoms. For advanced cases, deep brain stimulation surgery may be considered. Treatment is individualised based on your symptoms, age, and lifestyle needs.

Botox (botulinum toxin) is highly effective for focal dystonias and muscle spasms. It works by blocking nerve signals to overactive muscles. Common uses include cervical dystonia (neck muscle spasms), blepharospasm (eyelid twitching), hemifacial spasm, and bruxism (teeth grinding). Effects last 3-4 months, and treatments are repeated as needed.

Dystonia is a movement disorder causing sustained muscle contractions, resulting in twisting, repetitive movements, or abnormal postures. It can affect specific body parts (focal dystonia) like the neck (cervical dystonia), eyelids (blepharospasm), or hand (writer's cramp), or be more widespread. Treatment options include Botox injections, oral medications, and in some cases, deep brain stimulation.

See a neurologist if tremor affects your daily activities, you notice slowness in movements or stiffness, you have balance problems or falls, you experience involuntary movements or muscle spasms, or your handwriting has become smaller. Early diagnosis allows for better symptom management and access to the full range of treatment options.