Articles related to MOVEMENT DISORDERS

Blood-based mitochondrial DNA testing could provide a less invasive alternative to spinal taps for Parkinson’s diagnosis, with implications for earlier intervention and treatment.

Long-term use of dopaminergic medications shows correlation with gradual RLS symptom deterioration, prompting a shift toward alpha-2-delta ligand calcium channel blockers as preferred pharmacological interventions.

Anticholinergic medications require careful consideration of both peripheral and central effects, particularly in patients with existing cognitive impairments.

Recent studies indicate that balance impairments are present in all essential tremor patients, though younger patients may employ compensatory mechanisms to perform better in clinical tests.

Gait speed tests assess functional mobility, providing insights into a patient’s ability to perform daily activities independently and safely.

Actigraphy devices revealed significant improvements in sleep patterns with nighttime levodopa use, despite patients not perceiving these changes subjectively.