While not a common condition, Tardive Dyskinesia or TD is certainly becoming better understood in recent years. A neurological disorder stemming from prolonged use of certain medications, TD is most often linked to involuntary movements.
In most cases, these movements are relatively minor, including things like facial tics, lip smacking, or involuntary blinking. However, what many people don’t realize is just how complex some movements become.
In some cases, disruptive, full-body movements known as ‘intrusive movements’ can drastically affect daily functioning. From problems with eating to issues with walking, writing, and social interactions, life can get challenging fast with intrusive movements.
Let’s discuss how this affects your life and what you can do to overcome these difficulties.
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Intrusive Movements: A Closer Look
TD is typically caused by dopamine-blocking medications, such as antipsychotics, but in rare circumstances, other medications may also trigger the condition. So, with that said, it’s always important to track your medicine use and any new symptoms and issues that arise. If you or someone you know is prescribed drugs for schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, it’s important to keep an eye out.
As previously mentioned, signs of TD can range from subtle to severe, so let’s quickly cover exactly what we’re dealing with.
Note the following symptoms:
- Limbs and torso – Abrupt jerking of the arms and legs
- Posture difficulties – Trouble with balance and coordination
- Speech and breathing – Difficulty vocalizing or interruptions in airflow
- Fine motor skills – Struggles with utensils, typing, or managing smaller objects
If you or someone you know notices these symptoms, it’s best to contact your doctor as soon as possible. Catching this early can play a major role in addressing TD before it gets severe.
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How to Manage Intrusive Movements
First, it’s important to note that treating TD often requires a comprehensive approach. This may include using alternative medications, using medications to treat the symptoms, and other lifestyle modifications.
The first effective approach is to use medications known to treat the symptoms of TD.
One commonly prescribed medication for TD symptoms is a vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) inhibitor. Basically, that means it helps to regulate the chemical levels in your brain responsible for these involuntary movements.
Many people also use benzodiazepines that, while good for short-term relief, may lead to dependency. Finally, there’s something called amantadine, which is being studied for its potential effects on dopamine.
Aside from more medicines, TD sufferers also turn to therapy and relaxation techniques. Physical and occupational therapy may be particularly useful as they’ll help you improve your muscle control, flexibility, and stability when walking. If need be, you can even modify your home using things like weighted utensils, grip-friendly pens, and stability-enhancing footwear.
Breathwork techniques like deep breathing, yoga, and guided meditation are also potentially effective, so ask your doctor for good resources that can help you tap into a more mindful lifestyle.
Some people even swear by light dancing, which promotes rhythmic, controlled movement that counteracts the erratic movements of TD.
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But whatever you do, don’t forget to diet!
The best food for TD is food that promotes brain and nervous system health. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon and walnuts are always good, while magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens and seeds help your muscles relax.
Also, don’t miss out on foods that are full of antioxidants to lower stress in your body. These include choices like berries, dark chocolate, and even green tea. As you embark on a healthy diet, just be sure to limit your caffeine and alcohol intake, as these can disrupt normal nervous system functioning.
If you’re unsure about any of this or feel overwhelmed at any time, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Many online and in-person support groups share coping techniques, and if you want more professional help, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly useful for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and frustration over TD.
Some groups even offer social skills training, as many sufferers of TD lose confidence when their involuntary movements make socializing more difficult.
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Addressing the Psychological Impact
Many people challenged with TD experience a profound emotional impact. They may feel self-conscious and insecure. They may become detached and isolated, cutting themselves off from people, places, and things they once enjoyed. Over time, this can worsen the effects of TD, leading to hopelessness and, in extreme cases, suicidal ideation.
If you or someone you know is dealing with this, you’re not alone!
Whether the symptoms are subtle or severe, practicing self-compassion is key. You should always recognize that TD is not some personal failing or character defect. It’s a legitimate medical condition. Oftentimes, it can even be greatly reduced simply by lowering your medication dose or switching to alternative medicines.
This is why it’s important that you educate yourself and your loved ones about this condition. That will help lower the stigma and spread awareness and understanding.
Education and awareness also help foster advocacy. If TD affects your work performance, don’t hesitate to discuss workplace accommodations so that you can remain safe, secure, and productive. And if you still find immense challenges in your way, you can always consider the latest cutting-edge treatments.
With medical research continuously evolving, new treatments and interventions are developed all the time. For TD specifically, scientists are exploring exciting new gene therapies, neurostimulation, and alternative medication formulations that may provide better relief for sufferers at all levels.
Not to mention the effect on the prognosis of TD. Not only are people improving their quality of life with new medical and therapeutic treatments, but they’re also enjoying new neurological medications that don’t lead to TD symptoms in the first place.
Although TD can make life complicated, it doesn’t have to be a life-changing condition. Whether you or a loved one is frustrated by minor tics or profoundly affected by intrusive movements, the future looks brighter all the time.
Thankfully, with the right combination of medications, therapies, lifestyle changes, and emotional support systems, countless individuals with TD are returning to the life they once knew.
With a positive outlook and a steady, comprehensive approach, you and your loved ones can, too!
