Movement Disorders in Children — Phoenix, AZ

Movement Disorders in Children — Phoenix, AZ

Pediatric movement disorders — including tremors, dystonia, chorea, ataxia, and tics — can significantly impact a child's daily functioning and quality of life. Dr. Tamara Zach MD at Rose Medical Pavilion provides expert evaluation and individualized treatment for children throughout Phoenix, AZ.

Types of Movement Disorders

Movement disorders are classified by the type of abnormal movement. Tremors are rhythmic, involuntary oscillations. Dystonia involves sustained or repetitive muscle contractions causing twisting postures. Chorea consists of brief, irregular, unpredictable movements. Ataxia refers to incoordination of voluntary movements.

Causes

Causes vary widely and include genetic conditions, autoimmune disorders, metabolic diseases, medications, and structural brain abnormalities. Accurate diagnosis requires a systematic approach — a thorough history, examination, and targeted testing.

Diagnosis

Dr. Tamara Zach MD evaluates movement disorders through detailed neurological examination, video documentation of abnormal movements, and targeted laboratory and imaging studies. Genetic testing is frequently informative for childhood-onset movement disorders.

Treatment

Treatment is condition-specific and may include medications to reduce abnormal movements, physical and occupational therapy, and — for select conditions — deep brain stimulation (coordinated with neurosurgery). Dr. Tamara Zach MD provides ongoing follow-up and adjusts treatment as the child grows.