<unk>  refers to a group of physical dysfunctions that occur when the group of nuclei in the brain known as the<unk><unk>  fail to properly suppress unwanted movements or to properly prime upper motor neuron circuits to initiate motor function. Research indicates that increased output of the<unk><unk>  inhibits thalamocortical projection neurons. Proper activation or deactivation of these neurons is an integral component for proper movement.  If something causes too much<unk><unk>  output, then the thalamocortical projection neurons become too inhibited and one cannot initiate voluntary movement. These disorders are known as hypokinetic disorders.  However, a disorder leading to abnormally low output of the<unk><unk>  leads to relatively no inhibition of the thalamocortical projection neurons. This situation leads to an inability to suppress unwanted movements.  These disorders are known as hyperkinetic disorders. Currently, reasons for abnormal increases or decreases of<unk><unk>  output are poorly understood.  One possible factor could be the natural accumulation of iron in the<unk><unk> , causing neurodegeneration due to its involvement in toxic free-radical reactions. Though motor disorders are the most common associated with the<unk><unk> , recent research shows that<unk><unk>  disorders can lead to other dysfunctions such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and Tourette syndrome.
Basal ganglia disease
Motor neuron disease
Spinal cord tumor
Paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis risk factors
Vertebral artery disease
Central core disease