Which term describes the inability to coordinate voluntary muscle movements?

Ataxia is the term that describes the inability to coordinate voluntary muscle movements. This condition can manifest in various forms, including issues with balance, gait, and fine motor skills. It often results from damage to the cerebellum, which is the part of the brain responsible for controlling movement and coordination.

Individuals experiencing ataxia may struggle with tasks that require precise muscle control, such as writing, buttoning a shirt, or walking steadily. This lack of coordination can be caused by a variety of underlying issues, including neurological disorders, alcohol abuse, vitamin deficiencies, or genetic conditions.

The other terms relate to different medical conditions. Atonia refers to a state of lack of muscle tone, typically characterized by weakness rather than coordination issues. Tardive dyskinesia is a neurological condition resulting in involuntary movements, often due to long-term use of certain medications, and does not primarily involve the voluntary coordination of muscle movements. Presbyopia is an age-related condition affecting vision, specifically the ability to focus on close objects, and is not related to muscle coordination at all.