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Rhythmic movement disorder in childhood: An integrative review
Amy R M Gwyther1, Arthur S Walters2, Catherine M Hill3
1Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK.
Insights
Childhood rhythmic movement disorder involves repetitive movements before sleep. Research is limited, highlighting a need for systematic studies on causes and treatments for this sleep disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
- Developmental Pediatrics
Background:
- Rhythmic movement disorder (RMD) involves repetitive stereotypic movements, often occurring before sleep onset.
- Existing research on childhood RMD is sparse, primarily relying on case series and reports.
- Diagnostic criteria, particularly the need for clinical consequences, are often not met.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current state of research on childhood rhythmic movement disorder.
- To identify emerging themes and knowledge gaps in RMD.
- To emphasize the need for systematic research into RMD's etiology and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing literature on childhood rhythmic movement disorder.
- Analysis of case series and case reports to identify common themes.
- Evaluation of diagnostic criteria adherence in reported cases.
Main Results:
- RMD often begins in infancy and may resolve spontaneously in early childhood.
- Factors influencing RMD persistence remain unclear.
- Potential associations with ADHD and neurodevelopmental disorders warrant further investigation.
Conclusions:
- There is a significant lack of systematic research on childhood RMD.
- A standardized classification system is crucial for future research.
- Further investigation into RMD's underlying causes and effective treatments is urgently needed.
Abstract:
Rhythmic movement disorder consists of repetitive stereotypic movements, such as head banging or body rocking, that recur every second or so and may last from a few minutes to hours, usually prior to sleep onset. This review of childhood rhythmic movement disorder highlights the lack of systematic research into core aspects of the condition, relying heavily on small case series or case reports. Interpretation is further limited by almost universal failure to confirm the core diagnostic criteria (C) of the International classification of sleep disorders (III), namely that the rhythmic movements should have clinical consequences. Nonetheless, a number of themes emerge. Rhythmic movement disorder is likely to start in infancy and have a developmental course with spontaneous resolution in early childhood in many cases. Factors associated with persistence are, however, unclear. Associations with ADHD and neurodevelopmental disorders are intriguing, require further study and may shed light on the underlying cause of the condition. There is a pressing need for a systematic approach to classify rhythmic movement disorder, to allow standardization of the much needed research into the underlying aetiology and treatment of this relatively neglected sleep disorder.
