Tourette Syndrome

Overview

Tourette syndrome is a nervous system (neurological) condition which occurs in childhood and is associated with repetitive movements (motor tics) and vocal sounds (vocal tics).

Tics may be classified as:

• Simple tics. Simple motor tics involve brief, repetitive movements, including blinking, shoulder shrugging or head-shaking. Simple vocal tics include sniffing, throat-clearing or grunting.
• Complex tics. Complex motor tics include repetitive movements involving several muscle groups, including touching objects, hopping or other tics. Complex vocal tics include repetitive words or phrases.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Experience. At Mayo Clinic, doctors who have experience in treating Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders care for you.
• Teamwork. At Mayo Clinic, an integrated team of doctors trained in mental health conditions (psychologists and psychiatrists), doctors trained in nervous system conditions (neurologists) and other doctors collaborates to evaluate and treat your condition.
• Research. Mayo Clinic doctors conduct studies to improve treatment for Tourette syndrome.

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

Read more about Tourette syndrome at MayoClinic.com.