dysmetria
Pronunciation: dis-MEE-tree-ah
A cerebellar sign characterized by the inability to control the range and force of muscular action, resulting in overshooting or undershooting movements.
Full Definition
Dysmetria is a motor control disorder resulting from cerebellar dysfunction, characterized by impaired ability to judge distance and range of movement. Patients with dysmetria demonstrate hypermetria (overshooting the target) or hypometria (undershooting the target) when attempting to reach for objects or perform coordinated movements. This condition commonly affects the limbs and can significantly impact functional activities such as eating, writing, and walking. Dysmetria is often assessed through finger-to-nose and heel-to-shin tests, and is frequently accompanied by other cerebellar signs including intention tremor, dysdiadochokinesia, and ataxic gait. Rehabilitation focuses on repetitive practice of targeted movements and coordination exercises to improve motor planning and execution.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from other movement disorders; specify whether hypermetria or hypometria is observed.
In Context
- "The patient exhibited marked dysmetria during the finger-to-nose test, consistently overshooting the target." — Neurological examination report