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Dystonia

Types and treatment of dystonia, which causes involuntary muscle contractions and abnormal postures.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Dystonia?

Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder that leads to involuntary, repetitive muscle contractions and, as a result, abnormal body positions or movements. It can affect only one area (focal dystonia) or cover the whole body in a generalized manner.

Cervical dystonia (spasmodic torticollis) is the most common type of focal dystonia; it is characterized by involuntary contraction of neck muscles causing the head to assume an abnormal position. Writer's cramp (hand dystonia), blepharospasm (eyelid dystonia), and laryngeal dystonia are other focal types.

Primary (genetic) and secondary (drug-induced, brain damage-related, metabolic disease-induced) forms of dystonia exist. Botulinum toxin injections show high efficacy especially in focal dystonias.

Symptoms

Involuntary neck contraction and turning of the head to one side
Abnormal postures and involuntary repetitive movements
Hand cramp and slowing while writing
Involuntary closure of the eyelids
Tremor in speech or voice (laryngeal dystonia)
Symptoms worsening with movement and decreasing at rest

Risk Factors

Family history of dystonia (gene mutations such as DYT1)
Use of dopamine-blocking drugs (antipsychotics)
Brain damage or stroke
Wilson's disease or other metabolic disorders
Neck trauma (for cervical dystonia)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Involuntary neck contraction or abnormal head position
  • Repetitive involuntary contractions with certain movements in the hand or arm
  • If the eyelids are closing spontaneously
  • If there are sudden abnormal contractions after antipsychotic drugs (acute dystonia — emergency)

Treatment Methods

01
Botulinum toxin injection (first-line for focal dystonia — very effective)
02
Oral drugs: anticholinergics, baclofen, clonazepam
03
Deep brain stimulation (widespread and drug-resistant dystonia)
04
Physical therapy and postural exercises
05
Treatment of the underlying cause (drug, Wilson's disease)
06
Sensory tricks: in some patients, certain touches can temporarily stop muscle contraction

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.