Tic Disorders

“Tics” are involuntary sounds or movements that are sudden and short, and can be repetitive in nature. Tics tend to wax and wane and may worsen during times of stress, or when feeling excited or tired. Up to 18% of school-age children experience tics, however, the majority of children with tics do not go on to develop a tic disorder. For children who do develop a tic disorder, whereby their tics continue after one year, therapy can be helpful to reduce the impact of their tics on schooling and physical discomfort or pain.

Chronic Motor or vocal tic disorder

Someone with chronic tic disorder can experience either stereotyped, repetitive motor or vocal tics. Tics are classified as either simple or complex. Examples of motor tics include behaviours such as eye blinking, nose twitching, mouth movements, facial grimacing, muscle jerking, and shoulder shrugging. Vocal tics can include sounds, such as grunting, sniffing, throat clearing, squeaking, and repetitive words or phrases.

Tourette syndrome

Tourette syndrome (TS) is diagnosed when a person has a combination of motor and vocal tics. TS is typically diagnosed during childhood and symptoms tend to wax and wane over time. TS can be well managed with the right support, and in some cases individuals can be symptom-free as they reach adulthood.

It is recommended that children with tic disorders are supported using a form of Habit Reversal Training (HRT), known as Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBIT). Click here to find out about HRT offered at CAO.