Get the facts on diseases, conditions, tests and procedures.
Enter the last name, specialty or keyword for your search below.
Primary motor stereotypies (also called stereotypic movement disorder), are rhythmic, repetitive, fixed, predictable, purposeful, but purposeless movements that occur in children who are otherwise developing normally. Examples of primary motor stereotypies are flapping and waving of the arms, hand flapping, head nodding and rocking back and forth.
These movements usually appear in the first three years of a child’s life and often continue. Though primary motor stereotypies are fairly common, the cause is unknown.
Motor stereotypies can also occur in children who have developmental problems, for example a child with autism, mental retardation, or vision or hearing impairment. In such cases where a behavioral or neurological disorder has been diagnosed, the movements are called secondary motor stereotypies.
Thanks to generous support from the Nesbitt-McMaster Foundation, we offer this online resource for parents like you who are looking for answers.
A new study by Dr. Harvey Singer and his team indicates a possible link between GABA and glutamate dysfunction and primary complex motor stereotypies.
Request an Appointment
Maryland Patients
Pediatric Neurology: 410-955-4259
Already a Patient?
Traveling for Care?
Whether you're crossing the country or the globe, we make it easy to access world-class care at Johns Hopkins.
Outside of Maryland (toll free)
410-464-6713
Request an Appointment
Medical Concierge Services
International Patients
+1-410-502-7683
Request an Appointment
Medical Concierge Services
Language Assistance Available:
© The Johns Hopkins University, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, and Johns Hopkins Health System. All rights reserved.
