Rhythmic movement disorder

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Jactatio capitis nocturna)

Rhythmic movement disorder (RMD) is a neurological disorder characterized by repetitive movements of large muscle groups immediately before and during sleep often involving the head and neck. It was independently described first in 1905 by Zappert as jactatio capitis nocturna and by Cruchet as rhythmic movement disorder.[1][2]

Symptoms and signs[edit | edit source]

RMD episodes typically last 15 minutes to 2 hours and occur at a frequency of 0.58 Hz. The movements can resemble head banging, head rolling, body rocking, body rolling and leg banging.[3]

Causes[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of RMD is unknown, but it is believed to be related to stress and anxiety. It is also associated with developmental disorders and neurological disorders.[4]

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of RMD is typically made through sleep study (polysomnography). This involves monitoring brain waves, muscle tension, eye movement, respiration, and the level of oxygen in the blood while the patient sleeps.[5]

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for RMD is usually not necessary unless the disorder is causing significant sleep disruption or risk of injury. In such cases, treatment may include behavioral therapy, medication, or a combination of both.[6]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. "NINDS Rhythmic Movement Disorder Information Page". Retrieved 20 April 2017.
  2. American Sleep Association. "Rhythmic Movement Disorder". Retrieved 20 April 2017.
  3. American Sleep Association. "Rhythmic Movement Disorder". Retrieved 20 April 2017.
Rhythmic movement disorder Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD