Diadochokinesia
Diadochokinesia is a medical term that refers to the ability to perform rapid, alternating movements. It is often used in neurological examinations to assess the function of the cerebellum, a part of the brain that plays a key role in motor control and coordination.
Definition[edit | edit source]
Diadochokinesia is derived from the Greek words "diadochos", meaning "succeeding", and "kinesis", meaning "movement". In a medical context, it refers to the ability to make quick, alternating movements, such as rapidly pronating and supinating the hands and forearms.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
Impaired diadochokinesia is often a sign of cerebellar dysfunction. It can be observed in conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease, and Stroke. It is typically assessed during a neurological examination using tests such as the finger-to-nose test or the heel-to-shin test.
Assessment[edit | edit source]
The assessment of diadochokinesia involves asking the patient to perform rapid, alternating movements. This can include:
- Rapidly tapping the fingers against the thumb
- Rapidly pronating and supinating the hands and forearms
- Rapidly tapping the foot on the ground
Associated Conditions[edit | edit source]
Impaired diadochokinesia can be associated with a number of neurological conditions, including:
- Multiple Sclerosis: A disease in which the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord.
- Parkinson's Disease: A neurodegenerative disorder that affects predominately dopamine-producing neurons in a specific area of the brain.
- Stroke: A condition that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients.
See Also[edit | edit source]
Diadochokinesia Resources | ||
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD