Movement Disorders Unit

The Movement Disorders Unit treats patients with neurological conditions that affect the control, coordination or execution of movement and who require expert assessment when their symptoms interfere with their independence or progress over time. It specialises in complex conditions that require an accurate diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan.

Specialist assessment for tremor, rigidity or gait disturbances

The unit is aimed at people with Parkinson’s disease, atypical parkinsonism, essential or secondary tremor, dystonia, tics, Tourette’s syndrome, myoclonus, chorea or ataxia.

A specialist assessment is particularly recommended when persistent tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement, involuntary movements or gait disturbances occur. The initial aim is to clearly identify the type of disorder, its cause and its stage of progression, thereby avoiding inaccurate diagnoses that could delay appropriate treatment.

Differential diagnosis and clinical classification of motor disorders

The process begins with a detailed neurological examination aimed at identifying specific motor patterns. Where necessary, further investigations are carried out to rule out structural or metabolic causes.

Each case is analysed individually, taking into account the progression of symptoms, the response to previous treatments and the functional impact on daily life. This assessment enables a treatment strategy to be established that is tailored to the specific clinical situation.

Optimised pharmacological treatment and advanced targeted therapies

The therapeutic approach is tailored to each stage of the disease. It may include optimised pharmacological treatment, continuous infusions of dopaminergic medication in selected cases, or botulinum toxin injections guided by ultrasound and electromyography, which allow for precise targeting of the affected muscles.

In more clinically complex situations, such as certain cases of advanced Parkinson’s disease or refractory dystonia, the suitability of deep brain stimulation is assessed following a thorough evaluation to confirm its appropriateness for each patient.

The indication for each technique is based on well-defined clinical criteria and a rigorous assessment of the expected benefit.

Progressive planning and multidisciplinary coordination

Given the progressive nature of many movement disorders, the unit works in coordination with other areas of Neurology and with specialists in rehabilitation, neuropsychology or speech and language therapy where necessary.

Treatment is not viewed as a one-off intervention, but as an evolving process that requires regular adjustments and the anticipation of future needs. Medium- and long-term planning is an essential part of clinical management.

Planned clinical follow-up and ongoing support

The care model combines a high level of technical specialisation with personalised, long-term care. From the very first consultation, sufficient time is set aside to listen carefully to the patient’s symptoms, explain the diagnosis clearly and describe, in an understandable way, the likely course of the disease and the available treatment options.

The patient plays an active role in decision-making, understanding the benefits, limitations and realistic expectations of each treatment. Information is provided progressively and tailored to each stage of the condition’s progression, allowing time for reflection and the resolution of any queries before commencing or modifying any treatment strategy.

Regular check-ups enable us to adjust medication, assess the clinical response and anticipate changes associated with the disease’s progression. This follow-up is not limited to technical monitoring, but incorporates ongoing support, practical guidance and coordination with other specialities where necessary.