Myoclonic seizures occur in several different types of childhood epilepsy. They involve abrupt muscle jerks in parts or all of the body. A hand may suddenly fling out, a shoulder may shrug, a foot may kick, or the entire body may jerk.

Myoclonic seizures can occur as a single event or in series. Consciousness and memory are not impaired. A myoclonic seizure may cause a child to spill or drop what s/he is holding, or to fall from his/her chair.

Myoclonic seizures should not be confused with tics or “startle” responses.