What is Dystonia?
Understanding the Symptoms
Treatment and Management of Dystonia

What is Dystonia?
Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder where involuntary muscle contractions cause repetitive and involuntary movements and abnormal posturing. It can occur in any part of the body, including the face, neck, arms, legs and trunk. Dystonia is classified based on the body parts affected and its cause. Common types of dystonia include Spasmodic Dysphonia, Cervical Dystonia, Focal and Generalized Dystonia.

Dystonia is caused by disruption or deterioration of the central nervous system’s functioning, which can be genetic or due to illness or injury. Symptoms of Dystonia may vary depending on the type and intensity of the disorder.

Understanding the Symptoms
The most common symptom of dystonia is abnormal posturing, which is characterized by increased muscle tone and repetitive, and painful muscle contractions. Other common symptoms include sluggish movements, excessive limb movements, vocal tics, blepharospasm and tremor. The severity of Dystonia symptoms may vary from person to person, and can range from mild to severe.

The diagnosis of Dystonia is based on a physical exam, review of medical history and the presence of the aforementioned symptoms. There is no cure for dystonia, but treatments are available to help manage and reduce the symptoms.

Treatment and Management of Dystonia
There is an array of treatments for dystonia, including medications, physical therapy, injections, and Botox. Medications may include muscle relaxants, antidepressants, antispasmodics and analgesics, depending on the type of dystonia. Botox injections can also be extremely effective at relieving symptoms, as they help relax the affected muscles. Physical therapy can help to retrain and strengthen weakened muscles, while injecting medicines into the muscle can help reduce spasms and cramps.

Living with dystonia can be difficult and disruptive; it can cause social anxiety as well as physical pain and discomfort. As such, good mental health support is essential. It is important to remain positive and to find ways to cope and manage the symptoms, such as relaxation techniques and talking to a therapist. With the right treatment and management, the symptoms of dystonia can be managed, reducing the impact of the disorder on daily life.