A doctor from London who uses the TikTok handle “Medifectious” has gained widespread attention after posting a brief but intriguing hand test. Early detection of a brain tumour or other neurological conditions may be aided by this easy test. He demonstrates how to check for dysdiadochokinesia (pronounced dis-dee-ad-oh-ko-ki-nee-zee-ah) in his video, which has received over 185,000 views. Having difficulty with quick, alternating hand movements is referred to by this medical phrase.
How to Do the Hand Test
- Hold your arms out straight in front of you
- Put your hands facing down
- Turn your hands over so they face up
- Keep flipping your hands from down to up as fast as you can for 30 seconds
Most people can do this test easily. The doctor explains, “If someone has trouble with this, it might indicate a problem in the part of the brain that controls movement.” Healthy people can usually do this smoothly and quickly.
What Does Dysdiadochokinesia Mean?
It indicates difficulty performing rapid, fluid back-and-forth motions. It’s an indication that something may be amiss with your brain, but it’s not an illness. This symptom could be a sign of a tumour or other cerebellar neurological disorders. Those that have this issue may observe:
- Being awkward or frequently dropping objects
- Having issues balancing when walking and pressing buttons on shirts
- Uncomfortable or rigid movements, particularly with the hands
- Writing more sloppy than previously
Your body’s cerebellum functions similarly to a traffic light. It ensures that all of your movements occur in the proper sequence and is located at the rear of your brain. Even basic movements become difficult when something is affecting it.
Brain Tumor Signs: Understanding the Science Behind the Test
The cerebellum, sometimes referred to as the “little brain,” contains about half of your brain’s neurones although making up only 10% of its total volume. It adjusts your motions without your conscious awareness.
The cerebellum coordinates muscle shifts and produces minute adjustments in real time during rapid movements, such as the hand-flipping test. This examines what medical professionals refer to as “cerebellar timing circuits,” which aid in regulating the timing of the muscles that raise and lower your palm.
