Tic disorder

Tic disorders have been described and defined the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) based on type (motor or phonic) and duration of tics. Tics are sudden, rapid, nonrhythmic, stereotyped, involuntary movements.

According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), "A tic is a problem in which a part of the body moves repeatedly, quickly, suddenly and uncontrollably. Tics can occur in any body part, such as the face, shoulders, hands or legs. They can be stopped voluntarily for brief periods. Sounds that are made involuntarily (such as throat clearing) are called vocal tics. Most tics are mild and hardly noticeable. However, in some cases they are frequent and severe, and can affect many areas of a child's life."

It should be emphasized that tics are not voluntary and cannot be suppressed for long. Children should not be blamed or made to feel ashamed of their tics.

Treatment
Treatment of tic disorders are almost similar to the treatment of Tourette's syndrome.