Alternate 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:

• Encephalitis
• Hepatic encephalopathy
• Medication side effects
• Cerebral palsy
• Genetic disease

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 If:

• There is unexplained dystonia.
• The problem is getting worse.
• Uncontrolled movements are accompanied by other symptoms.

What To Expect: 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?