Dyskinesias: What They Look Like and What You Can Do
Ever notice uncontrollable movements in yourself or someone you care for and wonder what’s going on? That’s often dyskinesia — a group of movement problems that range from mild twitches to bigger, disruptive motions. These aren’t random; they usually point to a cause we can address.
Common causes and how they differ
Medications are the most common trigger. Levodopa for Parkinson’s can cause peak-dose dyskinesia (large, dance-like movements) after long-term use. Antipsychotics can cause tardive dyskinesia, which often shows as repetitive mouth, tongue, or facial movements. Other causes include Huntington’s disease, certain metabolic issues, and brain injury, but drugs are the big ones most people can change.
There are different flavors of dyskinesia: chorea (quick, jerky moves), dystonia (sustained muscle contractions that twist the body), akathisia (a restless urge to move), and tremor-like movements. Spotting the pattern helps your doctor pick the right fix fast.
Practical steps for patients and caregivers
If you spot new movements, don’t panic. Start by tracking when they happen, how long they last, and any medications taken close to symptom onset. This timeline is gold for clinicians. Share videos if possible—movement is easier to judge on camera than by description.
Treatment depends on the cause. If a drug is responsible, doctors often try dose adjustments, switching drugs, or adding medications that calm unwanted movements. For tardive dyskinesia, VMAT2 inhibitors like tetrabenazine, deutetrabenazine, or valbenazine can reduce symptoms for many people. For levodopa-induced dyskinesia, options include tweaking levodopa timing, adding amantadine, or, in select cases, deep brain stimulation (DBS).
Other useful options: botulinum toxin (Botox) injections for focal dystonia, short-term benzodiazepines for severe restlessness, or physical therapy to improve posture and reduce injury risk. Every choice has trade-offs, so expect a period of testing with close follow-up.
Simple daily strategies help too: avoid sleep deprivation, reduce stress, and limit caffeine or other stimulants that can worsen movements. Safety matters—secure sharp objects and be careful with hot liquids or stairs if movements affect coordination.
When should you see a specialist? If movements start suddenly, worsen quickly, disrupt daily life, or follow a change in medication, get medical advice promptly. Neurologists who specialize in movement disorders can offer the most options and tailor treatments to your life and goals.
Dyskinesias aren’t a one-size-fits-all problem. With careful tracking, the right medical review, and practical home steps, most people find ways to reduce symptoms and keep living well. If you’re unsure where to start, your primary doctor can help you get to the right specialist fast.