Motor disorders described in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) are characterized by malfunctions in one's nervous system, leading to involuntary body movements. These movements may include tremors, jerks, twitches, or muscle contractions.
There are many different types of motor disorders, such as developmental coordination disorder, stereotypic movement disorder, and, most commonly, tic disorders.
Note: A tic is a sudden, rapid, recurrent, nonrhythmic tic motor movement or vocalization.
Studies have shown that the prevalence of tic disorders may range from oh point 7% up to 4.2% of children. According to the DSM-5, the prevalence rate of Tourette's disorder ranges from 3 to 8 per 1,000 school-age children.
With motor disorders, individuals generally cannot be completely cured of them. With effective treatment plans involving both medications and behavioral therapy, those diagnosed with a motor disorder can learn to lead a fulfilling life despite the difficulties imposed by their condition.
With motor disorders, one should start seeking help when the movements caused by the disorder occur regularly or become so severe that they cause problems in their daily lives. Since these disorders may begin as early as childhood, parents should be aware of the symptoms to seek help as soon as they notice them.
Treatment for motor disorders aims to tackle the specific problem areas that each disorder may cause to whoever is diagnosed with it. Most treatment approaches utilize medications alongside behavioral therapy to gain the most benefit from the treatment process.
In order to tackle developmental coordination disorder, a combination of education, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills training is usually used to be able to live with the condition without it significantly affecting the individual's life.
For stereotypic movement disorder, treatments may tackle stressors that trigger the movements. A technique known as Differential Reinforcement of Other Behaviors (DRO) aims to reinforce socially appropriate behavior. Functional Communication Training (FTC) teaches the individual alternative behavior to replace the stereotypical movement caused by the disorder.
Tic disorders are most commonly treated using medications to control ticks or reduce the symptoms caused by the disorder. Behavior therapy or psychotherapy can be used in addition to medications to help individuals cope with their symptoms.