Clinical Approach to a Child with Movement Disorders

Assessing movement can be especially challenging in children. Refined yet flexible observational examination skills and utilization of established phenomenological approaches are essential in distinguishing normal from abnormal movements in the developing child and reaching an appropriate diagnosis. Mastering such skill requires an appreciation of the unique features of the developing motor system and an understanding of key concepts underlying normal motor development in children. Establishing a trusting therapeutic relationship with the patient and family, minimizing anxiety, and utilizing observation and distraction during physical examination are essential to successful diagnosis and management.