World movement disorders day 2025: Why moving freely is harder for some and what can help

Movement disorders can affect people of all ages and are often treatable when diagnosed early. (Image: Pexels)

While you may not notice it every day, because movement comes naturally to many, there are people whose lives are disrupted by movement disorders, a diverse group of neurological conditions that make motion unpredictable, difficult, or painful.

On 29 November, World Movement Disorders Day reminds us not only of the challenges but of the hope modern medicine now offers. “People often dismiss tremors or stiffness as part of getting older, but these can be signs of treatable neurological conditions,” explains Dr Ashish Susvirkar, Certified Movement Disorder Specialist at Bhailal Amin General Hospital. "Movement disorders can either cause too much movement, like tremors, tics, or dystonia, or too little, as seen in Parkinson’s disease", Dr Susvirkar tells Moneycontrol.

They may show up as involuntary jerks, neck twisting, facial spasms, imbalance, or slowness, all of which can interfere with work, social life, and even basic confidence.

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Early diagnosis is crucial. Dr Susvirkar stresses, “When identified early, these disorders can be managed effectively, preventing falls, depression, and functional disability. Many are not degenerative and are entirely treatable.”

Often called “Bo-tox” outside neurology, botulinum toxin is a precision therapy that relaxes overactive muscles. It can ease:

• Cervical dystonia: involuntary neck twisting causing pain and posture issues.
• Hemifacial spasm: one-sided facial twitches or blinking.
• Writer’s cramp: hand muscles tightening while writing.
• Limb dystonia: twisting or abnormal postures in arms or legs.
• Tremors: stabilising shaky hands, head, or limbs.
• Post-stroke spasticity: reducing stiffness for smoother movement.
• Jaw, voice, or facial dystonias: improving communication and daily comfort.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS): 

DBS implants a pacemaker-like device in the brain to deliver gentle electrical impulses, stabilising movement. It’s especially effective for:

• Parkinson’s patients with severe tremors or fluctuating symptoms.
• Tremors unresponsive to medication.
• Genetic or adult-onset dystonia.

Also Read: What causes shaky hands and how to treat them?

Movement disorders are medical conditions, not signs of ageing or weakness. With therapies like Botulinum Toxin and DBS, patients can lead active, dignified lives.

“Don’t ignore persistent tremors, stiffness, imbalance, or abnormal movements” urges Dr Susvirkar, saying, “Early evaluation can change the course of these disorders.”

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.