Stereotypic Movement Disorder
What Is Stereotypic Movement Disorder?
Stereotypic Movement Disorder (SMD) is a condition characterized by involuntary and repetitive movements. These movements are also called stereotypies and can be complex. These movements can be exhibited as body rocking, hand flapping, head banging, or any other repetitive movements. These movements can occur several times daily, are purposeless, and interfere with daily activities.
What Are the Types of Stereotypic Movement Disorder?
There are two main types of Stereotypic Movement Disorder, also known as stereotypies, which can be divided into.
Primary SMD (Stereotypic Movement Disorder)
The primary type of SMD is involved when the movements are not associated with other medical conditions. These repetitive movements, such as hand-waving, rocking, or head-banging, occur without association with other neurological conditions. These movements can result from stress, excitement, or boredom.
Secondary SMD (Stereotypic Movement Disorder)
The secondary type of SMD is involved when the movements are seen alongside other developmental conditions. Secondary type is commonly associated with conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), intellectual disability, or Sensory Processing Disorder. Movements in the secondary type can be more intense compared to those in the primary type.
Both types can vary in severity, impact on daily life, and depending on the intensity and presence of any underlying condition.
Stereotypic Movement Disorder Symptoms
SMD (Stereotypic Movement Disorder) is characterized by repetitive and involuntary movements, which vary in type and intensity in different age groups.
SMD Symptoms in Children
In children, body rocking, hand flapping, finger flicking, thumb sucking, and head shaking can be noticed. These behaviors can occur in early childhood, especially during rest and play. These movements can disturb their ability to focus and perform daily tasks.
SMD Symptoms in Adolescence
SMD (Stereotypic Movement Disorder) can display more complicated things like spinning, pacing, or complex hand gestures. These movements interfere with and disrupt their daily lives, impacting academic performance, relationships, and overall well-being.
SMD Symptoms in Adulthood
SMD (Stereotypic Movement Disorder) can manifest as repetitive finger tapping, lip biting, or body swaying. The impact on life can differ, with some people experiencing more consequential disruption than others.
What Increases the Risk of Stereotypic Movement Disorder?
Here are a few factors that can enhance the risk of developing Stereotypic Movement Disorder.
Genetic Factors, genetics play a role; for example, people with a family history of the condition are more likely to develop it.
Environmental Factors, such as maternal substance abuse and complications during pregnancy or childbirth, have been associated with the risk of developing SMD. Neglect and trauma are negative experiences that can also affect the development of SMD.
Neurological Factors, such as abnormalities in brain structure and functioning or any neurological problems caused by any brain injury, can have an impact on developing SMD.
Developmental Factors, Neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or intellectual disabilities can be involved in increasing the risk of developing SMD (Stereotypic Movement Disorder). Additionally, the presence of other behavioral conditions, such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), can play a role in enhancing the risk of developing SMD.
Note: Not all of these risk factors can lead to the development of SMD, but they may increase the risk of developing Stereotypic movement disorder (SMD).
Managing Strategies of Stereotypic Movement Disorder
Management of stereotypic movement disorder involves reducing the effects of stereotypic movements on daily life. For management, it is important to distinguish SMD from other conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Behavioral Interventions: can be utilized to identify the movement patterns and to focus on modifying the behavior through shaping and reinforcement techniques.
Occupational Therapy: This is a therapeutic approach that can be utilized to develop functional skills and reduce disruptive movements. Therapists focus on enhancing sensory processing, fine motor skills, and coping skills.
Supportive Therapies: Adopting other supportive therapies, such as joining support groups or psycho-education for both the person and their caregivers. Supportive therapies provide emotional support and help in learning stress management strategies to cope with the challenges associated with SMD (Stereotypic Movement Disorder).
Environmental Modifications: help decrease the impacts of stereotypical movements. Modifications such as creating a structured routine and a supportive environment can help reduce the anxiety that can be associated with stereotypical movements. Creating an organized living space, diminishing distractions, and utilizing sensory tools like toys, etc, can help in the management.
Collaborative Care: The management is a collaboration among healthcare professionals to make a comprehensive approach. This collaboration can be among psychiatrists, psychologists, pediatricians, occupational therapists, and other specialists. Establishing realistic goals can help define and manage stereotypic movements.
Final Thoughts
Early diagnosis is essential for effective management of SMD (Stereotypic Movement Disorder) by healthcare professionals. Behavioral interventions can help people adopt alternative behavior patterns to replace stereotypies. Occupational therapists can help in utilizing sensory integration techniques and improving self-regulation.