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[Parakinesia brachialis oscitans].
O Walusinski1, E Quoirin, J-P Neau
1Cabinet Médical, 28160 Brou. Walusinski@baillement.com
Revue Neurologique
|March 31, 2005
Summary
Yawning in hemiplegia can trigger involuntary arm movements. This phenomenon, "parakinesia brachialis oscitans," involves ancient brain structures and motor control during locomotion.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Motor Control
Background:
- Hemiplegia, a condition causing paralysis on one side of the body, presents unique neurological phenomena.
- The association between yawning and involuntary arm movements in hemiplegia is rarely documented.
Observation:
- Four cases of involuntary arm raising during yawning in hemiplegic patients were observed.
- A review of 150 years of medical literature revealed similar neglected cases.
Findings:
- Cerebral imaging indicates lesions in the internal capsule are often associated with this movement.
- The cortico-neocerebellum tract's disinhibition may lead to motor stimulation of the arm via the lateral reticular nucleus.
Implications:
- This suggests ancient subcortical structures regain autonomy in homeostasis during yawning.
- The phenomenon, termed "parakinesia brachialis oscitans," links reflex behavior, vigilance, and locomotion-related motor control.