Dystonia
Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions that cause repetitive or twisting movements and abnormal postures.
Symptoms
- Involuntary muscle contractions
- Abnormal postures or twisting of body parts
- Muscle tremors
- Dragging foot or stiff limbs
- Cramping during tasks like writing
Causes & Risk Factors
- Genetic mutations
- Brain trauma or injury
- Parkinson’s disease or stroke
- Medication side effects (especially antipsychotics)
- Idiopathic (no known cause)
Diagnosis
- Clinical neurological evaluation
- Genetic testing for hereditary forms
- MRI to rule out brain lesions
- EMG to assess abnormal muscle activity
Effective Treatment Options
- Botulinum toxin injections
- Physiotherapy for muscle control and balance
- Deep brain stimulation (for severe cases)
- Medications such as anticholinergics or muscle relaxants
Frequently Asked Questions
Is dystonia a progressive disease?
Some types are progressive while others remain stable or manageable with therapy.
Can physiotherapy help dystonia?
Yes, it helps improve posture, reduce spasms, and increase functional movement.
