Definition of Movement - unpredictable or jerky:

Jerky body movements is a condition in which people make fast movements that they cannot control and that have no purpose. These movements interrupt their normal movement or posture.

Considerations:

Typical movements of chorea include:

• Bending and straightening the fingers and toes
• Grimacing in the face
• Raising and lowering the shoulders

This condition can affect one or both sides of the body.

These movements do not usually repeat. They can look like they are being done on purpose, although they are not under the person's control. A person with chorea may look jittery or restless.

Common Causes:

There are many possible causes of unpredictable, jerky movements, including:

• Huntington's disease
• Sydenham chorea
• Wilson's disease
• Other rare disorders

Some medical illnesses that can cause chorea include:

• Anti-cardiolipin antibody syndrome
• Disorders of calcium, glucose, or sodium metabolism
• Polycythemia rubra vera
• Stroke
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Thyroid disease

Other possible causes of chorea include:

• Benign hereditary chorea (an inherited condition) -- rarely
• Pregnancy (chorea gravidarum)
• Tardive dyskinesia (a condition that can be caused by medications such as antipsychotic drugs)