What is a Movement Disorder Specialist?

A Movement Disorder Specialist (MDS) is a neurologist with advanced training and expertise in diagnosing and treating movement disorders—neurological conditions that affect the ability to control muscle movements. These disorders can cause involuntary movements, muscle spasms, tremors, stiffness, or difficulty with coordination and balance.

Movement disorder specialists focus on conditions such as Parkinson's disease, Dystonia, Essential Tremor, Huntington’s disease, Tourette Syndrome, and other movement-related issues. They are experts in helping patients manage these conditions and improve their quality of life.

What Does a Movement Disorder Specialist Do?

Movement disorder specialists have specialized knowledge in:

✔ Diagnosing Movement Disorders: They use a combination of clinical evaluations, tests, and sometimes genetic screenings to accurately diagnose the type of movement disorder you have.

✔ Developing Treatment Plans: Once diagnosed, they work closely with patients to create personalized treatment strategies, which may include medications, physical therapy, Botox injections (for Dystonia), or advanced treatments like Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS).

✔ Managing Symptoms: They help manage the progression of the condition and adapt treatment as symptoms change over time.

✔ Providing Ongoing Care: They often monitor the long-term progression of movement disorders and adjust medications or treatments as necessary.

Why See a Movement Disorder Specialist?

Accurate Diagnosis: Since many movement disorders share similar symptoms, a movement disorder specialist can provide a more accurate diagnosis than a general neurologist.

Expertise in Treatment: They are skilled in the latest treatments and emerging therapies, which can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life.

Comprehensive Care: They focus on holistic care by integrating medical treatments with therapies like physical therapy and occupational therapy to address all aspects of the condition.

Conditions Treated by Movement Disorder Specialists

Parkinson’s Disease

Dystonia

Essential Tremor

Huntington’s Disease

Tourette Syndrome

Chorea and Ataxia

Restless Legs Syndrome

Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)

How to Find a Movement Disorder Specialist?

To find a Movement Disorder Specialist, consider:

✔ Asking your primary care physician or neurologist for a referral.

✔ Searching for specialists through reputable organizations like the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) or the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation.

✔ Checking with local hospitals or academic medical centers, as they often have specialists in neurological movement disorders.

Conclusion

A Movement Disorder Specialist is a key player in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect your ability to move. Their expertise ensures that you receive the most effective care tailored to your specific needs, giving you the best chance to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.