Neurologists often think of movement disorders as a family of related neurological conditions that affect different parts of the nervous system. Some primarily involve the Basal Ganglia, the brain structures that help start and regulate movement. Others affect the Cerebellum, which helps control balance and coordination, the motor neurons that activate muscles, or the cellular energy systems that keep nerve cells functioning.
Because these systems work together to control movement, problems in different parts of the system can produce different types of neurological disorders. A helpful way to think about it: when neurologists evaluate movement symptoms or possible movement disorders, they often begin by asking which part of the nervous system that controls movement may be involved.
Understanding Related Neurological Movement Disorders
How the Nervous System Shapes Movement Disorders
Parkinson’s often serves as a starting reference point for doctors evaluating other movement disorders that share overlapping symptoms.
PD's and its recognizable symptoms make it a useful jumping-off point for understanding the broader movement-disorder landscape.
We began our review of movement disorders with a detailed look at Parkinson’s, one of the most widely recognized neurological disorders.
That starting point helps guide the next steps - what tests to order, what conditions to consider, and how doctors narrow down the possible causes of someone’s symptoms.
How the Brain’s Networks Work Together to Control Movement
The Brain Systems Behind Movement
The first chart offers a simplified view of how movement disorders are often grouped based on the brain systems involved. While real-world diagnoses are often more complex, this framework provides a helpful starting point for understanding how different neurological conditions affect movement, balance, coordination, and muscle control.
The second chart revisits a diagram shown earlier on this site that illustrates how neurological movement disorders are commonly grouped and categorized. Looking at the two perspectives together helps connect the biology of the brain with the way doctors classify these conditions, making the broader movement-disorder landscape a little easier to understand.
In an earlier section of this website, we reviewed that the nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord, and the network of nerves that carry signals throughout the body. Together, these systems control movement, coordination, balance, posture, and many automatic body functions.
When parts of this system are disrupted, movement can become slower, less coordinated, or harder to control.
We now turn our focus to the brain itself. The brain controls movement through several interconnected systems. When different parts of this network are affected, different types of neurological disorders can develop.
Neurologists often think of movement control as coming from three major brain systems:
• Basal Ganglia → regulates movement initiation (Parkinsonian disorders)
• Cerebellum → coordinates balance and precision (Ataxias)
• Motor Neurons → act as the system’s engine, carrying the signals that provide the power needed to activate and sustain movement.act as the system’s engine, carrying the signals that provide the power needed to activate and sustain movement.
Some conditions primarily affect how the brain regulates movement, while others involve degeneration of specific brain regions, genetic mutations, or problems with how nerve cells produce and use energy. Because these disorders can share overlapping symptoms, doctors often look at which parts of the nervous system may be involved and how those systems normally work together.
Understanding these categories helps doctors recognize patterns, narrow possible diagnoses, and determine which tests: such as imaging, genetic testing, or neurological exams,may provide the clearest answers.
The charts below provide two complementary views of how neurologists organize movement disorders.
Making Sense of Movement Disorders
Movement disorders can seem complex at first because many cMany neurological movement disorders share similar symptoms and affect different parts of the nervous system. Because of this overlap, neurologists often look for patterns—considering where in the nervous system the problem may be occurring and how it affects movement.
The key ideas below highlight several ways doctors think about and categorize these conditions.
Key Takeaways
The key ideas below highlight several ways doctors think about and categorize these conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Neurologists often group disorders based on which part of the nervous system is affected and the symptoms they produce
- Some conditions resemble Parkinson’s early on but involve additional neurological systems. These are often called Parkinsonism-Plus disorders.
- Movement disorders are commonly described as either hypokinetic or hyperkinetic. Hypokinetic disorders involve too little movement, while hyperkinetic disorders involve excess or uncontrolled movement.
- Genetic and mitochondrial disorders can sometimes produce symptoms that overlap with movement disorders, which can make diagnosis more complex.
What “Parkinsonism-Plus” Means
Some disorders produce symptoms that initially resemble Parkinson’s Disease, but they involve additional neurological features that are not typical of Parkinson’s itself. Because of this, neurologists often refer to them as Parkinsonism-Plus disorders (sometimes called atypical parkinsonian disorders).
The word “Parkinsonism” refers to the cluster of movement symptoms that resemble Parkinson’s:
• slowed movement (Bradykinesia)
• rigidity or muscle stiffness
• tremor
• balance or postural instability
These symptoms reflect problems in the brain systems that regulate and coordinate movement.
The word “Plus” means that the condition also includes additional neurological features beyond the core Parkinson’s movement symptoms. These added features often help doctors distinguish these disorders from Parkinson’s itself.
Examples may include:
• eye-movement abnormalities or difficulty controlling gaze
• early problems with balance, walking, or frequent falls
• autonomic dysfunction (issues with blood pressure, bladder control, or digestion)
• cognitive, speech, or behavioral changes
The word “Parkinsonism” refers to the cluster of movement symptoms that resemble Parkinson’s:
• slowed movement (Bradykinesia)
• rigidity or muscle stiffness
• tremor
• balance or postural instability
These symptoms reflect problems in the brain systems that regulate and coordinate movement.
The word “Plus” means that the condition also includes additional neurological features beyond the core Parkinson’s movement symptoms. These added features often help doctors distinguish these disorders from Parkinson’s itself.
Examples may include:
• eye-movement abnormalities or difficulty controlling gaze
• early problems with balance, walking, or frequent falls
• autonomic dysfunction (issues with blood pressure, bladder control, or digestion)
• cognitive, speech, or behavioral changes
Multifactorial Parkinson’s vs. Parkinsonism-Plus Disorders
Understanding the difference can be important during the diagnostic process, especially early on when symptoms may overlap or evolve over time.
Multifactorial Parkinson’s refers to how Parkinson’s disease may develop. Most researchers believe the disease does not arise from a single cause. Instead, several factors (such as genetics, aging, environmental exposures, mitochondrial dysfunction, and abnormal protein buildup) may interact gradually over time, ultimately leading to the changes in the brain that produce Parkinson’s symptoms.
Parkinsonism-Plus disorders, by contrast, are separate neurological diseases. They can resemble Parkinson’s early on because they produce similar movement symptoms, but they affect additional brain systems. As a result, they often cause symptoms beyond the typical movement problems seen in Parkinson’s disease.
In simple terms:
• Multifactorial Parkinson’s → describes how Parkinson’s may arise
• Parkinsonism-Plus → describes different diseases that can initially look like Parkinson’s but are biologically distinct conditions
Multifactorial Parkinson’s refers to how Parkinson’s disease may develop. Most researchers believe the disease does not arise from a single cause. Instead, several factors (such as genetics, aging, environmental exposures, mitochondrial dysfunction, and abnormal protein buildup) may interact gradually over time, ultimately leading to the changes in the brain that produce Parkinson’s symptoms.
Parkinsonism-Plus disorders, by contrast, are separate neurological diseases. They can resemble Parkinson’s early on because they produce similar movement symptoms, but they affect additional brain systems. As a result, they often cause symptoms beyond the typical movement problems seen in Parkinson’s disease.
In simple terms:
• Multifactorial Parkinson’s → describes how Parkinson’s may arise
• Parkinsonism-Plus → describes different diseases that can initially look like Parkinson’s but are biologically distinct conditions
Mitochondria: A Renewed Area of Research
In recent years, there has been renewed interest in the role Mitochondria may play in neurological movement disorders, particularly Parkinson’s Disease. While researchers began exploring this connection decades ago, advances in genetics, cellular biology, and imaging technologies have brought new attention to how mitochondrial dysfunction may influence the development and progression of these conditions.
Scientists now understand that nerve cells require enormous amounts of energy to function properly. Because mitochondria are responsible for producing much of that energy, problems in these cellular “power systems” may affect how neurons survive and communicate, particularly in parts of the brain that regulate movement.
In the sections that follow, we will take a closer look at the individual disorders within each of the categories outlined above. For each condition, we will briefly review the key symptoms, how common the disorder is, and what researchers currently understand about the biological processes involved.
Scientists now understand that nerve cells require enormous amounts of energy to function properly. Because mitochondria are responsible for producing much of that energy, problems in these cellular “power systems” may affect how neurons survive and communicate, particularly in parts of the brain that regulate movement.
In the sections that follow, we will take a closer look at the individual disorders within each of the categories outlined above. For each condition, we will briefly review the key symptoms, how common the disorder is, and what researchers currently understand about the biological processes involved.
What Parkinson’s Medications Actually Target
Disease-targeting treatments focus on replacing dopamine, mimicking its effects, or helping existing dopamine last longer in the brain. These medications form the foundation of Parkinson’s treatment and are most effective for movement-related symptoms such as slowness, stiffness, and tremor.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
PARKINSONIAN DISORDERS
What Parkinson’s Medications Actually Target
Disease-targeting treatments focus on replacing dopamine, mimicking its effects, or helping existing dopamine last longer in the brain. These medications form the foundation of Parkinson’s treatment and are most effective for movement-related symptoms such as slowness, stiffness, and tremor.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a rare neurological disease that affects movement, balance, and the body’s autonomic functions—the automatic systems that control processes such as blood pressure, bladder function, and digestion.
The condition gradually damages multiple areas of the brain involved in movement and autonomic regulation. Because several systems are affected, MSA can produce a combination of Parkinson-like movement symptoms, coordination problems, and disruptions in the body’s automatic functions.
In the early stages, MSA may resemble Parkinson’s because it can cause slowed movement and muscle stiffness. Over time, however, symptoms involving balance, coordination, and autonomic control often become more noticeable.
Key Symptoms:
• stiffness and slowed movement
• coordination and balance problems
• dizziness or fainting caused by low blood pressure
• bladder dysfunction
• speech or swallowing difficulty
Estimated prevalence: (Rare)
• about 3–5 people per 100,000 people
• roughly 15,000–20,000 people in the United States
Symptoms most often begin between ages 50 and 60.
The condition gradually damages multiple areas of the brain involved in movement and autonomic regulation. Because several systems are affected, MSA can produce a combination of Parkinson-like movement symptoms, coordination problems, and disruptions in the body’s automatic functions.
In the early stages, MSA may resemble Parkinson’s because it can cause slowed movement and muscle stiffness. Over time, however, symptoms involving balance, coordination, and autonomic control often become more noticeable.
Key Symptoms:
• stiffness and slowed movement
• coordination and balance problems
• dizziness or fainting caused by low blood pressure
• bladder dysfunction
• speech or swallowing difficulty
Estimated prevalence: (Rare)
• about 3–5 people per 100,000 people
• roughly 15,000–20,000 people in the United States
Symptoms most often begin between ages 50 and 60.
Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)
Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a rare neurological disease that affects balance, walking, eye movement, and overall movement control. The condition gradually damages certain areas of the brain that help regulate posture, coordination, and eye movements.
One of the most distinctive features of PSP is difficulty controlling vertical eye movement, particularly looking up or down. Because of problems with balance and posture control, many people with PSP experience early and frequent falls, often before other symptoms become more noticeable.
PSP can also cause stiffness and slowed movement, which may resemble Parkinson’s in the early stages. However, as the condition progresses, additional symptoms involving eye movement, speech, and swallowing often become more prominent.
Key Symptoms:
• difficulty moving the eyes up or down
• frequent unexplained falls
• stiffness and slowed movement
• speech and swallowing problems
Estimated prevalence: (Rare)
• about 5–7 people per 100,000 people
• roughly 20,000 people in the United States
Symptoms most often begin between ages 60 and 70.
One of the most distinctive features of PSP is difficulty controlling vertical eye movement, particularly looking up or down. Because of problems with balance and posture control, many people with PSP experience early and frequent falls, often before other symptoms become more noticeable.
PSP can also cause stiffness and slowed movement, which may resemble Parkinson’s in the early stages. However, as the condition progresses, additional symptoms involving eye movement, speech, and swallowing often become more prominent.
Key Symptoms:
• difficulty moving the eyes up or down
• frequent unexplained falls
• stiffness and slowed movement
• speech and swallowing problems
Estimated prevalence: (Rare)
• about 5–7 people per 100,000 people
• roughly 20,000 people in the United States
Symptoms most often begin between ages 60 and 70.
Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)
Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD) is a rare neurological disease that affects movement, coordination, and certain thinking functions. The condition involves gradual damage to nerve cells in parts of the brain responsible for movement control and higher cognitive functions.
One characteristic feature of CBD is that symptoms often begin on one side of the body, particularly affecting an arm or leg. As the disease progresses, the brain may have increasing difficulty coordinating movement and controlling specific muscle actions.
Because the disorder can affect both movement networks and cortical brain regions, people with CBD may experience a combination of motor symptoms and cognitive changes.
Key Symptoms:
• severe stiffness or rigidity in one limb
• difficulty controlling an arm or hand
• the “alien limb” phenomenon, where a limb seems to move involuntarily or feel disconnected from voluntary control
• Apraxia, or difficulty performing learned movements despite having the physical ability to do so
• speech or language problems
• balance and walking difficulties
Estimated prevalence: (Very Rare)
• about 2–5 people per 100,000 people
• possibly 10,000 or fewer people in the United States
Symptoms most often begin between ages 60 and 70.
One characteristic feature of CBD is that symptoms often begin on one side of the body, particularly affecting an arm or leg. As the disease progresses, the brain may have increasing difficulty coordinating movement and controlling specific muscle actions.
Because the disorder can affect both movement networks and cortical brain regions, people with CBD may experience a combination of motor symptoms and cognitive changes.
Key Symptoms:
• severe stiffness or rigidity in one limb
• difficulty controlling an arm or hand
• the “alien limb” phenomenon, where a limb seems to move involuntarily or feel disconnected from voluntary control
• Apraxia, or difficulty performing learned movements despite having the physical ability to do so
• speech or language problems
• balance and walking difficulties
Estimated prevalence: (Very Rare)
• about 2–5 people per 100,000 people
• possibly 10,000 or fewer people in the United States
Symptoms most often begin between ages 60 and 70.
Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD)
Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB) is a neurological condition that affects thinking, memory, sleep, and movement. It is caused by the buildup of abnormal protein deposits called Lewy bodies inside nerve cells in the brain.
These protein deposits can interfere with how brain cells communicate, particularly in areas involved in cognition, attention, and movement control. Because of this, DLB can produce a combination of cognitive symptoms and Parkinson-like movement changes.
One distinctive feature of DLB is that symptoms can fluctuate, meaning a person’s alertness, attention, or thinking ability may vary significantly from day to day or even within the same day.
Key Symptoms:
• visual hallucinations
• Parkinson-like movement symptoms (slowed movement, stiffness)
• sleep disturbances, especially acting out dreams during sleep
• fluctuations in alertness and attention
Estimated prevalence: (Fairly Common)
• about 1.4 million people in the United States
Symptoms most commonly begin after age 60.
These protein deposits can interfere with how brain cells communicate, particularly in areas involved in cognition, attention, and movement control. Because of this, DLB can produce a combination of cognitive symptoms and Parkinson-like movement changes.
One distinctive feature of DLB is that symptoms can fluctuate, meaning a person’s alertness, attention, or thinking ability may vary significantly from day to day or even within the same day.
Key Symptoms:
• visual hallucinations
• Parkinson-like movement symptoms (slowed movement, stiffness)
• sleep disturbances, especially acting out dreams during sleep
• fluctuations in alertness and attention
Estimated prevalence: (Fairly Common)
• about 1.4 million people in the United States
Symptoms most commonly begin after age 60.
Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB)
What Parkinson’s Medications Actually Target
Disease-targeting treatments focus on replacing dopamine, mimicking its effects, or helping existing dopamine last longer in the brain. These medications form the foundation of Parkinson’s treatment and are most effective for movement-related symptoms such as slowness, stiffness, and tremor.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
HYPERKINETIC MOVEMENT DISORDERS
What Parkinson’s Medications Actually Target
Disease-targeting treatments focus on replacing dopamine, mimicking its effects, or helping existing dopamine last longer in the brain. These medications form the foundation of Parkinson’s treatment and are most effective for movement-related symptoms such as slowness, stiffness, and tremor.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Essential tremor is a neurological movement disorder that causes rhythmic shaking, most commonly affecting the hands. The tremor typically occurs during movement or when holding a position, such as when writing, using utensils, or holding a cup. It is the most common movement disorder.
Although the hands are most often affected, essential tremor can also involve the head, voice, or other parts of the body. The condition is thought to involve changes in the brain networks that help control movement and coordination, particularly connections involving the Cerebellum.
Symptoms often develop gradually and may become more noticeable over time. In some families, essential tremor can run in genetic patterns, meaning multiple family members may experience similar symptoms.
Key Symptoms:
• tremor during movement or when holding objects
• shaking of the head or voice
• tremor that worsens with activity or stress
Estimated prevalence: (Common)
• about 7–10 million people in the United States
• roughly 1% of the population
Although the hands are most often affected, essential tremor can also involve the head, voice, or other parts of the body. The condition is thought to involve changes in the brain networks that help control movement and coordination, particularly connections involving the Cerebellum.
Symptoms often develop gradually and may become more noticeable over time. In some families, essential tremor can run in genetic patterns, meaning multiple family members may experience similar symptoms.
Key Symptoms:
• tremor during movement or when holding objects
• shaking of the head or voice
• tremor that worsens with activity or stress
Estimated prevalence: (Common)
• about 7–10 million people in the United States
• roughly 1% of the population
Essential Tremor
Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder in which muscles contract involuntarily, leading to twisting movements, repetitive motions, or abnormal body postures.
These muscle contractions can affect one part of the body, several regions, or sometimes the entire body. In some people, dystonia may appear as sustained muscle tightness, while in others it may cause repeated movements or unusual positioning of the head, neck, hands, or other body parts.
The condition occurs because the brain regions responsible for regulating movement, particularly the Basal Ganglia and related motor networks - do not properly control muscle activity.
Key Symptoms:
• twisting or sustained muscle contractions
• repetitive or patterned movements
• abnormal body positions or postures
Estimated prevalence: (Less Common)
• about 250,000–500,000 people in the United States
These muscle contractions can affect one part of the body, several regions, or sometimes the entire body. In some people, dystonia may appear as sustained muscle tightness, while in others it may cause repeated movements or unusual positioning of the head, neck, hands, or other body parts.
The condition occurs because the brain regions responsible for regulating movement, particularly the Basal Ganglia and related motor networks - do not properly control muscle activity.
Key Symptoms:
• twisting or sustained muscle contractions
• repetitive or patterned movements
• abnormal body positions or postures
Estimated prevalence: (Less Common)
• about 250,000–500,000 people in the United States
Dystonia
Huntington’s disease is a genetic neurological disorder that affects movement, thinking, and behavior. It is caused by a mutation in the HTT gene, which leads to gradual damage to nerve cells in certain areas of the brain, particularly those involved in movement and cognitive function.
Because the condition is inherited, it typically appears in adulthood and can slowly progress over time. As the disease affects different parts of the brain, it can lead to changes in movement control, thinking ability, and emotional or behavioral regulation.
One of the most recognizable features of Huntington’s disease is Chorea, a term used to describe involuntary, irregular movements that can appear as jerking or twisting motions.
Key Symptoms:
• uncontrolled movements (Chorea)
• cognitive decline or difficulty with thinking and memory
• behavioral or emotional changes
Estimated prevalence: (Rare)
• about 3–7 people per 100,000 people
• roughly 30,000 people living with Huntington’s disease in the United States
Because the condition is inherited, it typically appears in adulthood and can slowly progress over time. As the disease affects different parts of the brain, it can lead to changes in movement control, thinking ability, and emotional or behavioral regulation.
One of the most recognizable features of Huntington’s disease is Chorea, a term used to describe involuntary, irregular movements that can appear as jerking or twisting motions.
Key Symptoms:
• uncontrolled movements (Chorea)
• cognitive decline or difficulty with thinking and memory
• behavioral or emotional changes
Estimated prevalence: (Rare)
• about 3–7 people per 100,000 people
• roughly 30,000 people living with Huntington’s disease in the United States
Huntington's Disease
What Parkinson’s Medications Actually Target
Disease-targeting treatments focus on replacing dopamine, mimicking its effects, or helping existing dopamine last longer in the brain. These medications form the foundation of Parkinson’s treatment and are most effective for movement-related symptoms such as slowness, stiffness, and tremor.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
CEREBELLAR DISORDERS
What Parkinson’s Medications Actually Target
Disease-targeting treatments focus on replacing dopamine, mimicking its effects, or helping existing dopamine last longer in the brain. These medications form the foundation of Parkinson’s treatment and are most effective for movement-related symptoms such as slowness, stiffness, and tremor.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) refers to a group of genetic neurological disorders that primarily affect the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for balance, coordination, and the precise timing of movement.
In these conditions, changes in certain genes cause gradual damage to the Cerebellum and its connections with other parts of the nervous system. As this system becomes impaired, the brain has more difficulty coordinating movement.
Because of this, people with SCA often develop Ataxia, a term used to describe problems with coordination, balance, and control of movement. Symptoms usually develop gradually and may slowly worsen over time.
Key Symptoms:
• loss of coordination
• balance problems or unsteady walking
• slurred or slowed speech
• difficulty with fine motor control, such as writing or buttoning clothes
Estimated prevalence (Rare)
• about 1–5 people per 100,000 people
In these conditions, changes in certain genes cause gradual damage to the Cerebellum and its connections with other parts of the nervous system. As this system becomes impaired, the brain has more difficulty coordinating movement.
Because of this, people with SCA often develop Ataxia, a term used to describe problems with coordination, balance, and control of movement. Symptoms usually develop gradually and may slowly worsen over time.
Key Symptoms:
• loss of coordination
• balance problems or unsteady walking
• slurred or slowed speech
• difficulty with fine motor control, such as writing or buttoning clothes
Estimated prevalence (Rare)
• about 1–5 people per 100,000 people
Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA)
What Parkinson’s Medications Actually Target
Disease-targeting treatments focus on replacing dopamine, mimicking its effects, or helping existing dopamine last longer in the brain. These medications form the foundation of Parkinson’s treatment and are most effective for movement-related symptoms such as slowness, stiffness, and tremor.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
MOTOR NEURON DISORDERS
What Parkinson’s Medications Actually Target
Disease-targeting treatments focus on replacing dopamine, mimicking its effects, or helping existing dopamine last longer in the brain. These medications form the foundation of Parkinson’s treatment and are most effective for movement-related symptoms such as slowness, stiffness, and tremor.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a neurological disease that affects motor neurons, the nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscles. As these nerve cells gradually degenerate and die, the brain loses its ability to send signals to the muscles.
Over time, this leads to progressive muscle weakness and loss of muscle control. ALS can affect muscles used for movement, speaking, swallowing, and eventually breathing.
ALS is sometimes referred to as “Lou Gehrig’s disease,” named after the famous New York Yankees baseball player who was diagnosed with the condition in 1939.
Key Symptoms:
• progressive muscle weakness
• muscle twitching or cramping
• difficulty speaking or swallowing
• problems with coordination or balance
• gradual loss of muscle control
Estimated prevalence: (Rare)
• about 2–3 people per 100,000
• roughly 30,000 people living with ALS in the U.S.
Over time, this leads to progressive muscle weakness and loss of muscle control. ALS can affect muscles used for movement, speaking, swallowing, and eventually breathing.
ALS is sometimes referred to as “Lou Gehrig’s disease,” named after the famous New York Yankees baseball player who was diagnosed with the condition in 1939.
Key Symptoms:
• progressive muscle weakness
• muscle twitching or cramping
• difficulty speaking or swallowing
• problems with coordination or balance
• gradual loss of muscle control
Estimated prevalence: (Rare)
• about 2–3 people per 100,000
• roughly 30,000 people living with ALS in the U.S.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
What Parkinson’s Medications Actually Target
Disease-targeting treatments focus on replacing dopamine, mimicking its effects, or helping existing dopamine last longer in the brain. These medications form the foundation of Parkinson’s treatment and are most effective for movement-related symptoms such as slowness, stiffness, and tremor.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
GENETIC NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS (MITOCHONDRIAL)
What Parkinson’s Medications Actually Target
Disease-targeting treatments focus on replacing dopamine, mimicking its effects, or helping existing dopamine last longer in the brain. These medications form the foundation of Parkinson’s treatment and are most effective for movement-related symptoms such as slowness, stiffness, and tremor.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
POLG-related disorders are genetic Mitochondrial conditions that affect how cells produce energy. The POLG gene provides instructions for an enzyme that helps maintain mitochondrial DNA, which is essential for normal energy production inside cells.
When this gene does not function properly, Mitochondria may struggle to produce enough energy for the body’s cells, particularly nerve cells, which require large amounts of energy to function.
Because Neurons depend so heavily on energy, Mitochondrial Dysfunction can affect the brain, nerves, and muscles. As a result, POLG-related disorders can sometimes produce symptoms that overlap with other neurological conditions, including movement disorders, peripheral neuropathy, and Cerebellar Ataxia.
Symptoms and severity can vary widely depending on how the gene is affected and which parts of the nervous system are involved.
Estimated prevalence: (Rare)
• roughly 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 20,000 people
When this gene does not function properly, Mitochondria may struggle to produce enough energy for the body’s cells, particularly nerve cells, which require large amounts of energy to function.
Because Neurons depend so heavily on energy, Mitochondrial Dysfunction can affect the brain, nerves, and muscles. As a result, POLG-related disorders can sometimes produce symptoms that overlap with other neurological conditions, including movement disorders, peripheral neuropathy, and Cerebellar Ataxia.
Symptoms and severity can vary widely depending on how the gene is affected and which parts of the nervous system are involved.
Estimated prevalence: (Rare)
• roughly 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 20,000 people
POLG-Related Disorders
What Parkinson’s Medications Actually Target
Disease-targeting treatments focus on replacing dopamine, mimicking its effects, or helping existing dopamine last longer in the brain. These medications form the foundation of Parkinson’s treatment and are most effective for movement-related symptoms such as slowness, stiffness, and tremor.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Symptom-targeted treatments are used to address specific challenges that may not respond fully to dopamine-based therapy alone. These can include motor symptoms (such as dyskinesia or tremor) as well as non-motor symptoms (such as sleep problems, mood changes, or autonomic issues). While these treatments don’t directly change dopamine levels, they can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and comfort.
Most people with Parkinson’s use a combination of both approaches, and treatment plans often evolve over time. Medications are adjusted based on symptoms, response, side effects, and stage of disease, with the shared goal of maintaining the best possible quality of life.
Understanding the Next Steps
Continuing the Journey
For many people, the journey into movement disorders begins with a single symptom, a tremor, stiffness, balance problems, or a change in coordination.
What often follows is a period of questions, testing, and learning while doctors work to understand exactly what is happening. Because many neurological disorders can share similar symptoms, it can take time to sort out which part of the nervous system may be involved.
Understanding how neurologists group these conditions can help bring some structure to what may initially feel confusing.
If you encounter terms or concepts that are unfamiliar, the BetterChance Glossary provides plain-English explanations to help make sense of the language often used in neurology.
We also encourage readers to explore the foundations and organizations working to support people affected by Parkinson’s disease and other neurological movement disorders. These groups provide education, research updates, and community resources that can be valuable along the journey.
At BetterChance Alliance, our goal is simple: to translate complex neurological science into clear, practical understanding so individuals and families can move forward with greater confidence.
