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Muscular atrophy
Muscular atrophy

Movement - uncontrolled or slow
Definition:
Uncontrolled or slow movement is defined as an impairment of the muscle tone (usually in large muscle groups), causing slow involuntary contractions of the head, limbs, trunk, or neck.

Alternative Names:
Dystonia; Involuntary slow and twisting movements; Choreoathetosis; Leg and arm movements - uncontrollable; Slow involuntary movements of large muscle groups; Arm and leg movements - uncontrollable; Athetosis; Athetoid movements

Considerations:
The slow sinuous twisting movements of muscles (athetosis) or sustained muscle contraction (dystonia) may be caused by a number of conditions, including cerebral palsy, encephalitis, drug side effects, hepatic encephalopathy, and Huntington's chorea.

The abnormal movement may be reduced or disappear during sleep, but it is worsened by emotional stress. Abnormal and sometimes grotesque postures may be a manifestation of these movements.
Common Causes:
Home Care:
Get adequate sleep and avoid excessive stress. In severe cases, take safety measures to avoid injury. Follow prescribed therapy for treatment of the underlying cause.
Call your health care provider if:
  • There is unexplained dystonia.
  • The problem is getting worse.
  • Uncontrolled movements are accompanied by other symptoms.
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 uncontrolled-slow movement in detail may include:
  • Time pattern
    • When did you develop this problem?
    • How long have you had it?
    • Is it always the same?
    • Is it always present or only occasionally?
    • Is it getting worse?
  • Aggravating factors
    • Is it worse after exercise?
    • Is it worse during times of emotional stress?
    • Has there been any injury or accident recently?
    • Has there been any illness recently?
  • Relieving factors
    • Is it better after you sleep?
  • Other
    • What other symptoms are also present?
The physical examination may include a detailed examination of the nervous and muscular systems.

Diagnostic tests will be determined by the results of the history and physical exam findings.

After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to uncontrollable slow movements to your personal medical record.
Review Date: 7/30/2001
Reviewed By: Galit Kleiner-Fisman MD, FRCP(C), Department of Neurology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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