Stereotypic Movement Disorder

Stereotypic movement disorder is a mental-health condition characterized by repetitive movements. Symptoms include---but are in no way limited to---swaying, shaking, tics, picking at skin or even biting oneself. While any of these actions can be subtle or pronounced, they must be cyclical or continuous to be a symptom of this mental disorder, and the repetitive activity must be serious enough that it disrupts daily life.

Symptoms

• Any action that is repetitive or recurring can be considered part of this condition. In stereotypic movement disorder, the symptoms vary from person to person. Some individuals rock back and forth, while others carry out simple hand movements or gestures. The repetitive activity may be something as minor as twisting your hair or something as extreme as hitting yourself---some people bang their head repeatedly. But to be deemed a "true" psychiatric disorder, the repetitive actions must be present for a span of at least four consecutive weeks and interfere with daily life.

Origin

• In some cases of stereotypic movement disorder, the origin of the condition is unknown. However, in many cases the condition can be directly linked to certain factors. Drug abuse, especially with regard to stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine, can cause a "short-lived" occurrence of stereotypic movement disorder, but you may also develop a permanent form of this condition due to a traumatic brain injury. It is also possible to manifest this disorder due to sensory deprivation, anxiety and other psychiatric disorders.

Treatment

• As with many disorders that affect the body, treatment is usually based on the cause of the condition, when it is identifiable. With drug-induced stereotypic movement disorder, ridding the body of the drug, such as in a detox facility, can remedy the condition. Cognitive behavior therapy is often beneficial, as many of the repetitive actions are triggered or worsened during periods of stress or heightened emotion. You may also need prescription medication, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs, to treat the condition.

Risk Factor

• There are certain demographics of the population that are more likely to be affected by stereotypic movement disorders. Boys are more likely than girls to develop the disorder, and the disorder usually manifests itself during adolescence and, in some cases, childhood. People with autism, Tourette syndrome and other pervasive cognitive disorders are by far the most likely to develop this condition, as are mentally retarded people, particularly those who have been institutionalized and have experienced sensory deprivation and a lack of human contact.

Prevention

• In many cases, there are no preventive measures that can be taken, as the actions often stem from stress, pain or underlying developmental or psychiatric disorders. There is also some belief that this condition is partly due to genetics. With drug-induced stereotypic movement disorder, the most effective method of prevention is abstaining from the amphetamines or other drugs that can trigger the behavior. In the case of children, contact a health-care professional if your child repeats odd movements that persist longer than a few hours.