Movement disorders are a heterogeneous group of neurological conditions characterized by abnormal voluntary or involuntary movements, altered muscle tone, or impaired motor control. These disorders arise from dysfunction of neural circuits involving the basal ganglia, cerebellum, brainstem, and cortical motor pathways. Movement disorders may be hyperkinetic, involving excessive involuntary movements, or hypokinetic, characterized by reduced movement initiation and slowness.

Clinical manifestations include dystonia, chorea, myoclonus, tics, parkinsonian syndromes, and gait abnormalities. Symptoms may be focal, segmental, or generalized and can fluctuate in severity. Movement disorders may occur as primary neurological conditions or secondary to structural brain lesions, metabolic abnormalities, medications, autoimmune disease, or neurodegeneration.

Neurological assessment emphasizes careful observation of movement phenomenology, including pattern, distribution, suppressibility, and triggers. History focuses on age of onset, progression, medication exposure, family history, and associated neurological or systemic symptoms. Accurate phenomenological classification is essential for diagnosis and treatment planning.

Diagnostic evaluation may include neuroimaging, laboratory testing, genetic studies, and electrophysiological assessments, depending on suspected etiology. Many movement disorders are diagnosed clinically, supported by targeted investigations to exclude secondary causes.

Management strategies are individualized and depend on the underlying disorder, symptom severity, and functional impact. Treatment aims to reduce abnormal movements, improve motor control, and maintain independence. Long-term neurological follow-up is essential, as symptoms often evolve over time.

Movement disorders can significantly affect quality of life, social interaction, and psychological wellbeing. Multidisciplinary care involving physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy often enhances functional outcomes.

Movement disorders require specialist neurological expertise, longitudinal monitoring, and tailored interventions to optimize motor function and minimize disability.