Tourette syndrome

Overview

Tourette (too-RET) syndrome is a nervous system (neurological) disorder that starts in childhood and is associated with involuntary repetitive movements (motor tics) and vocal sounds (vocal tics).

Tics may be classified as:

• Simple tics. Simple tics include sudden brief, repetitive movements that involve a limited number of muscle groups. Examples of simple motor tics include blinking, shoulder shrugging or head shaking. Simple vocal tics may include behaviors such as sniffing, throat clearing or grunting.
• Complex tics. Complex tics include distinct, coordinated patterns of movements that involve several muscle groups. Examples of complex motor tics include touching objects or hopping. Complex vocal tics may include behaviors such as repeating words or phrases.

Read more about Tourette syndrome.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Expertise and experience. At Mayo Clinic, highly skilled doctors with extensive experience in treating Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders offer you the latest diagnostic methods and treatments.
• Team approach. At Mayo Clinic, a team of specialists — including doctors trained in nervous system conditions (neurologists), mental health conditions (psychologists and psychiatrists) and others — works together to evaluate and treat your condition.
• New research. Mayo Clinic research includes studying deep brain stimulation as a possible treatment for Tourette syndrome, focusing on people who don't respond to medical treatment.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked high performing for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic also ranks among the Best Children's Hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery.

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At Mayo Clinic, we assemble a team of specialists who take the time to listen and thoroughly understand your health issues and concerns. We tailor the care you receive to your personal health care needs. You can trust our specialists to collaborate and offer you the best possible outcomes, safety and service.

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