Movement Disorders in Children: Definitions, Classifications, and Grading Systems

Abstract

Disorders that affect movement in children are relatively common. However, they have received little attention, especially when compared with epilepsy and neuromuscular disorders. In this review article, we address the major types of movement disorders that affect children, their clinical characteristics and etiologies, and, when available, the scales used to grade them. A discussion on spasticity, which traditionally is not addressed in reviews of "movement disorders," is also included.

Botulinum toxin A in the management of focal muscle overactivity in children with cerebral palsy

“…Spasticity is defined as an isokinetic movement disorder resulting in hypertonia in which one or both of the following signs are present: Resistance to externally imposed movement increases with increasing speed of stretch and varies with the direction of joint movement; secondly, resistance to externally imposed movement rises rapidly above a threshold speed or joint angle [6,7]. Spasticity does not worsen with age but the paucity of variety of movement may result in secondary effects, e.g., contractures [7].…”

“…Spasticity does not worsen with age but the paucity of variety of movement may result in secondary effects, e.g., contractures [7].…”

AbobotulinumtoxinA for Equinus Foot Deformity in Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

“…[1][2][3] Paresis and spasticity, resulting from the upper motor neuron lesion, are significant contributors to the motor deficit and can result in the development of joint contractures, which initially are dynamic but, if left untreated, can become fixed joint deformities. Equinus is the most common foot deformity and is often associated with spasticity in the gastrosoleus muscle complex (GSC).…”

Identifying Common Movement Disorders in the Emergency Department

“…[6] The most common cause of acquired chorea in childhood is Sydenham chorea, which is a manifestation of rheumatic disease due to group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal infections. This is thought to be secondary to molecular mimicry between streptococcal and central nervous system antigens and the formation of cross-reactive anti-basal ganglia antibodies.…”

“…[6] While myoclonus can be physiologic, it can be alarming to parents and may lead to the parents seeking care in an ED. In an otherwise healthy and developmentally normal Table 3, metabolic disturbances such as uremic encephalopathy and immune-mediated diseases such as anti-NMDA receptor and Rasmussen's encephalitis.…”