Stereotypic Movement Disorder
What Is Stereotypic Movement Disorder?
Stereotypic Movement Disorder (SMD) is a condition known as repetitive and involuntary movements that can be complex. These movements, also called stereotypies, can be exhibited as hand flapping, body rocking, head banging, or any other repetitive movements. These movements are purposeless and can occur several times daily, interfering with daily activities.
What Are the Types of Stereotypic Movement Disorder?
Primary SMD: The primary type is involved when the movements are not associated with other medical conditions. The repetitive movements that occur such as hand-waving, rocking, or head-banging are without association with other neurological conditions. These movements can result from stress, excitement, or boredom.
Secondary SMD: The secondary type 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 as compared to the primary type.
Both types can vary in severity, impact on daily life, and depending on the intensity and presence of any underlying condition.
How to Spot 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.
In Children
In children, body rocking, hand flapping, finger flicking, thumb sucking, and head shaking can be observed. These behaviors can occur in early childhood, especially during rest and play. These movements can disturb their ability to focus and perform daily tasks.
During 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.
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: Genetic factors play a role, e.g., whoever has a previous history in their family is more likely to have the chance to develop it.
Environmental Factors: Environmental factors such as maternal substance abuse and complications during pregnancy or childbirth have been associated with the risk of developing SMD. Negative experiences, such as neglect and trauma, can also affect the development of SMD.
Neurological Factors: 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.
It is important to note that these risk factors can raise the likelihood of developing SMD, many people with these factors may not develop SMD.
Managing Strategies Stereotypic Movement Disorder
Management of stereotypic movement disorder is involved in 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: Behavioral interventions can be utilized to identify the movement patterns and to focus on modifying the behavior through shaping and reinforcement techniques.
Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy is the 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: Environmental modifications help in decreasing 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 defined managing stereotypic movements.
Final Thoughts
Early diagnosis is essential for effective management, 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.