Basal Ganglia and Movement Disorders

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts related to the basal ganglia, movement disorders, and associated neurological functions.

Basal Ganglia

A group of nuclei in the brain associated with control of movement.

Caudate

One of the components of the basal ganglia, involved in the regulation of movement.

Putamen

A part of the basal ganglia that works with the caudate in movement regulation.

Globus Pallidus

A structure in the basal ganglia that regulates voluntary movement.

Substantia Nigra

A structure in the brain rich in dopamine, critical for movement control.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter important for motor movement and coordination.

Parkinson's Disease

A neurodegenerative disorder characterized by reduced dopamine and motor control difficulties.

Atrophy

The wasting away or decline in size of an organ or tissue, here referring to the substantia nigra.

Tremors

Involuntary, rhythmic shaking or trembling movements, often observed in Parkinson's.

Gait

The manner or pattern of walking, which can be affected in movement disorders.

Motor Cortex

The part of the brain that controls voluntary muscle movements.

Hyperkinetic

Describes conditions characterized by excessive movement, such as in Huntington's disease.

Dyskinesia

Abnormal, uncontrolled, involuntary movements often seen in movement disorders.

Huntington's Disease

A genetic disorder resulting in the progressive deterioration of nerve cells in the brain.

Tourette Syndrome

A disorder characterized by repetitive movements or unwanted sounds (tics).

Hypokinetic

Describes conditions characterized by reduced movement, such as in Parkinson's disease.

Rigidity

Stiffness and resistance to movement, often seen in Parkinson's patients.

Volume Control Theory

The theory that the globus pallidus acts as a volume dial, regulating the extent of movement.

Inhibition

The process of restraining or suppressing a response or activity in the nervous system.

Thalamus

The brain's relay station for sensory and motor signals, crucial for movement coordination.

Disinhibition

The reduction or removal of inhibition, allowing for increased activity or movement.

Erratic Movements

Irregular, unpredictable movements often associated with hyperkinetic disorders.

Motor Ability

The capacity to perform physical movements effectively.

Shuffle Walk

A type of gait characterized by short steps and minimal foot lift, common in Parkinson's patients.

Basal Ganglia Pathways

Neural circuits involving the basal ganglia that regulate motor functions.

Neocortex

The part of the brain involved in higher-order functions such as sensory perception and cognition.

Health Conditions

Medical disorders or diseases that impact bodily functions, including movement.

Physical Manifestations

Observable signs or symptoms resulting from a disease or disorder.