Movement Disorders

The flagship journal of the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society:

📈 Journal Profile & Metrics

Impact Factor: According to Clarivate’s Journal Citation Reports, the 2022 IF was ~8.6 (#15/Clinical Neurology) , while Research.com reports an “Impact Score” of 14.3, derived from broader author-based metrics

SJR & h-index: Scimago places it in Q1 (SJR ~2.99, h‑index 238)

Editorial & Frequency: Published 16 times a year since 1986, currently edited by A. Jon Stoessl

🔍 Interpretation

Fixating on impact factor gives a snapshot of influence but has known statistical and field-dependent biases

The journal consistently performs strongly within neurology and movement disorder research.

🌟 Strengths & Positive Highlights

High Selectivity & Reputation

Ranks top-tier among clinical neurology journals and is the go-to venue for leading movement disorder research

Robust Peer Review & Editorial Oversight

SciRev users report “respectful, thoughtful” reviews, though initial round averages nearly two months—slightly longer than average

Ongoing engagement from editors ensures constructive feedback

Broad & Influential Scope

Publishes both clinical and basic neuroscience studies, including diagnostics, therapeutics, epidemiology, biomarkers, and phenomenology

Frequently produces highly-cited task-force and scale-critique papers (e.g. MDS‑UPDRS, Huntington’s scales, etc.) movementdisorders.org

⚠️ Limitations & Criticisms

Impact Factor Misuse & Limitations

Elevated IF may reflect broader editorial strategies—like favoring reviews or limiting citable items—so it should not be treated as a direct quality measure

Slow Review Speed

First-round review time averages ~7.7 weeks (≈1.8 months), which can delay dissemination—an important consideration in fast-moving areas

Potential Scope Bias

Heavy emphasis on Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, DBS, etc., potentially marginalizing rarer movement disorders, though it remains inclusive overall .

🧭 Recommendations

If you're considering submitting:

Expect rigorous editorial scrutiny and well-crafted feedback.

Plan for a ~2-month timeframe to reach a first decision.

Undertake large or review-type manuscripts—they’re more likely to be accepted and well-cited.

For researchers evaluating the journal:

Recognize its top-tier standing in clinical neurology and movement disorders, but de-emphasize rankings like IF in favor of article quality and relevance.

Pay attention to Scimago metrics (Q1, h-index), which offer broader insight into influence and longevity.

✅ Verdict

Movement Disorders stands as a premier, highly respected journal within its niche. Its advantages include high impact, authoritative content, and strong editorial standards. The main trade-offs are moderate review timelines and occasional over-reliance on impact factor metrics. For those in the field, it remains a leading and appropriate choice—particularly if you're targeting visibility and scholarly impact.