How Do You Spell LOCOMOTOR ATAXIA?

1. Locomotor ataxia is a medical condition characterized by impaired coordination of voluntary muscle movement and lack of proper control during locomotion. It is a type of ataxia, a general term referring to a group of disorders that affect the coordination of movements.

   Specifically, locomotor ataxia primarily affects the ability to control gait and balance, resulting in an unsteady, stumbling, and wide-based walking pattern. Other common symptoms include difficulty with fine motor tasks, such as writing or buttoning clothes; jerky, uncoordinated movements; and a lack of coordination when performing precise movements, such as touching the nose with the finger.

   This condition is commonly caused by damage or dysfunction of the cerebellum, a part of the brain responsible for coordinating muscle activity. Locomotor ataxia can be acquired through various factors, including medical conditions like multiple sclerosis or stroke, certain infections such as syphilis, or as a result of alcohol abuse (known as alcoholic cerebellar degeneration). In some cases, locomotor ataxia may also be hereditary.

   Diagnosis of locomotor ataxia typically involves a thorough neurological examination, evaluation of medical history, laboratory tests, and imaging studies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and may include medication, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and lifestyle modifications. The aim of treatment is to manage symptoms and improve overall motor function and quality of life for individuals with locomotor ataxia.

2. • (1) Motor a.; (2) tabes dorsalis.

   • Tabes dorsalis.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for LOCOMOTOR ATAXIA

The word "locomotor ataxia" is derived from two components: "locomotor" and "ataxia".

1. Locomotor: The term "locomotor" comes from the Latin word "locus" meaning "place" or "site" and the Latin word "motor" meaning "mover". It refers to anything related to movement or the act of moving.

2. Ataxia: The term "ataxia" is derived from the Greek word "a" meaning "without" and the Greek word "taxis" meaning "order" or "arrangement". Thus, "ataxia" literally means "without order". It is used to describe the loss of coordination and muscle control, which can affect movements such as walking, balance, and fine motor skills.