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Published on: April 11, 2019
Electroconvulsive Therapy in Movement Disorders: A Systematic Review
Louis Kindts1, Kyra Bouillon2, Pascal Sienaert3
1University Psychiatric Center KU Leuven.
The Journal of ECT
|June 22, 2026
Summary
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) shows promise for improving symptoms in some movement disorders, particularly Parkinson disease. However, its effects on Huntington disease are unclear, necessitating further research.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Movement Disorders
Background:
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a recognized psychiatric treatment.
- Emerging evidence suggests ECT may influence movement disorder symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the existing literature on ECT's efficacy in treating movement disorders.
- To synthesize findings regarding ECT's impact on both motor and non-motor symptoms.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major scientific databases (PubMed, SCOPUS, Cochrane, Web of Science, Embase).
- Fifty-eight relevant publications were selected for detailed data extraction and analysis.
Main Results:
- Evidence indicates a beneficial effect of ECT on motor and non-motor symptoms in several movement disorders.
- Parkinson disease showed the most significant positive response to ECT.
- Data for Huntington disease suggests a potential negative impact, requiring cautious interpretation.
Conclusions:
- ECT demonstrates potential therapeutic benefits for certain movement disorders, notably Parkinson disease.
- The current evidence base is limited by the qualitative and quantitative rigor of studies, often relying on case reports.
- Further rigorous research, including case reports and standardized clinical trials, is essential to clarify ECT's role in movement disorder management.
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