Movement Disorder Specialist in Cumberland & Hagerstown, MD

What Is a Movement Disorder?

A movement disorder is a neurological condition that affects the speed, fluency, quality, or ease of movement. Some movement disorders cause too little movement — like the slowness and stiffness of Parkinson's disease. Others cause too much movement — like tremors, twitching, or involuntary muscle contractions.

Because so many different conditions can affect movement, and because they're treated very differently, an accurate diagnosis from a neurologist is the essential first step.

Movement Disorders We Diagnose and Treat

Our neurologists evaluate and manage the full spectrum of movement disorders, including:

• Parkinson's disease — slowness, stiffness, tremor, and balance changes.
• Essential tremor — rhythmic shaking, usually of the hands during activity.
• Dystonia — involuntary muscle contractions that cause twisting movements or abnormal postures.
• Restless leg syndrome (RLS) — an irresistible urge to move the legs, especially at night.
• Ataxia — loss of coordination affecting walking, balance, and fine movements.
• Tardive dyskinesia — repetitive, involuntary movements, often related to certain medications.
• Tics and Tourette syndrome — sudden, repetitive movements or sounds.
• Functional movement disorder — movement symptoms caused by how the nervous system is functioning, which are real and treatable.
• Other tremors, twitches, and gait or balance problems.

Common Signs of a Movement Disorder

Consider seeing a movement disorder specialist if you or a loved one experiences:

• Tremors or shaking in the hands, head, or voice
• Slowness of movement or unusual stiffness
• Involuntary movements, twitching, or muscle spasms
• Abnormal postures or twisting movements
• Problems with balance, coordination, or walking
• A persistent urge to move the legs, especially at night
• Tics or repetitive movements you can't control

These symptoms can develop gradually or come on more quickly. Either way, an evaluation can identify the cause and the right treatment.

Worried about Parkinson's specifically? Read the 10 early signs of Parkinson's disease.

How We Diagnose Movement Disorders

Because many movement disorders look similar but require different treatments, careful evaluation by an experienced neurologist is key. Diagnosis is largely clinical — based on examining your movements — and may include:

Treatment and Ongoing Care

Treatment depends entirely on the specific diagnosis, and many movement disorders respond very well to care. Depending on your condition, your plan may include:

• Medication management carefully tailored to your diagnosis and adjusted over time
• Treatment of underlying or contributing causes, such as low iron in RLS or medication-related movements
• Referrals to physical, occupational, and speech therapy to maintain function and independence
• Coordination of advanced therapies, such as deep brain stimulation, with specialized centers when appropriate
• Ongoing follow-up to keep your treatment working as your needs change

Our goal is to help you move and feel better — and to keep you active and independent for as long as possible.

Why Choose Mir Neurology?

• Board-certified neurologists with 20+ years of experience
• Expertise across the full range of movement disorders
• Accurate diagnosis that distinguishes look-alike conditions
• Personalized, long-term care with attentive follow-up
• Most major insurance plans accepted
• Two convenient locations in Cumberland and Hagerstown — expert care close to home

Serving Western Maryland & the Tri-State Area

We provide movement disorder care for patients across the region, so you don't have to travel to Baltimore, Pittsburgh, or D.C.:

Frequently Asked Questions

Struggling with Tremors, Stiffness, or Movements You Can't Control?

Get an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan from a movement disorder specialist at Mir Neurology in Cumberland or Hagerstown.

Request an Appointment | (301) 797-7600