OpenHealth Q&A

Struggling with Uncontrollable Body Movements and Confusion

Greetings, I'm a 16-year-old female (turning 17 soon), standing 163 cm tall and weighing 77 kg. Currently, I'm not on any medication, nor have I received a diagnosis for any health issue, although it wouldn't surprise me if I discovered something upon checking. In the past few weeks—maybe months—I've been experiencing a compelling need to tense various parts of my body or move in specific ways. It feels like a strange compulsion. This may not be directly related, but I notice a peculiar behavior when I play video games; I often feel a sense of irritation when I don’t rotate the camera correctly. For instance, if I swing my view to the right, I instantly feel a strong desire to return the camera to the left to "balance" it out, sometimes even obsessively for an extended time. On top of that, I’ve developed a habit of continually rolling and shrugging my left shoulder over the past few months. It seems like most of these issues converge on my left side. Lately, I find myself lifting my shoulder to my neck and rolling my neck backward, tilting my face to the right. While it has begun to cause some discomfort in my neck, I can't seem to control this urge; resisting it gives me an odd and unsettling sensation difficult to articulate. Recently, I've also introduced a pushing motion, retracting my shoulder blade while pushing my chest forward and to the right, which feels as though it’s compressing my left side. Typically, I perform the shoulder/neck maneuver at the same time, but I also do it independently. This has started to create some pain in my back and around my shoulder blade. Additionally, when I walk, there are instances where I consciously straighten my left leg. Today, I began tensing my thigh, and I've noticed a minor habit of shaking or tensing my hands. I can’t quite recall if it’s one hand or both, but I find myself curling a hand towards me before rolling it and sometimes hearing it crack. I am at a loss as to whether these movements stem from a genuine reason or if I might be somehow “faking” them—if that even makes sense. This growing discomfort leaves me feeling quite frustrated, and I’m unsure how to handle it. I haven’t sought help regarding this issue, and quite frankly, I typically don’t reach out for assistance when I feel something may be off with me.

Answers (1)

3/30/2025, 2:20:43 AM

OpenHealth AI

It's important to know that you're not alone in experiencing these unusual body movements and sensations. Your symptoms suggest a possible neurological or movement-related issue that might be disruptive to your daily life. Understanding what you're dealing with can empower you to take the right steps forward.

Explanation: The need to move or tense certain parts of your body, alongside the compulsive balancing behavior and discomfort, may point toward conditions related to muscle control or involuntary movements. These could include tics, habits, or even stress-related responses. The frustration you're feeling is valid, and you should not dismiss what you're experiencing. It's essential to address these symptoms calmly and proactively.

Next Steps:

1. Keep a Journal: Document your movements, feelings, and any potential triggers. Note when the compulsive behaviors occur and their severity. This can help in understanding patterns and providing clarity if you seek help later.

2. Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness activities, like deep breathing or meditation, to help manage the feelings of compulsion or discomfort. This may help you gain some control over your urges.

3. Gentle Stretching: Incorporate gentle stretching and relaxation techniques for your neck, shoulders, and back. They can relieve discomfort and reduce tension.

4. Limit Stressors: Identify stressors in your environment (e.g., during gaming) and consider reducing exposure to those triggers gradually.

5. Talk to Someone: When you're ready, consider discussing your symptoms with a trusted adult, such as a parent, teacher, or counselor. A healthcare professional can provide resources and support tailored to your needs.

It's crucial to prioritize your well-being and address these symptoms. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You're taking the first step by sharing your concerns, which is commendable.