Dystonia is a common neurological movement disorder characterised by sustained and involuntary muscle contractions or muscle spasms. These spasms can cause twisting, repetitive movements or abnormal postures and are sometimes accompanied by tremor.
It is estimated that there are at least 70,000 people living with dystonia in the UK. The condition affects males and females of all ages. In adults, dystonia tends to remain located in a specific part of the body such as the neck, hands, face or eyelids. However, if dystonia starts in childhood, it often spreads to other parts of the body. There are a number of types of dystonia.
Dystonia is not a degenerative condition. It is principally a problem caused by faulty signals being sent from the brain to muscles, which results in ‘co-contraction’ (opposing muscles working together. For example, when straightening your arm, the muscles that bend it and the muscles that straighten it, would work at the same time). Remission from symptoms, though unusual does occur, usually in around 5% of cases.
The majority of cases of dystonia are ‘primary’ which means they are not linked to another condition or event. When dystonia is caused by an existing neurological condition, a previous course of medication or trauma, it is known as 'secondary'. Some dystonias are known to be of genetic origin. Although, the majority of dystonias can not be linked to a particular gene, the exception is childhood onset dystonia, which, in over 50% of cases is known to be linked to one of several identified genes.
Although there is currently no cure, effective treatments for dystonia are available. The most common, comprise regular injections of botulinum toxin injections to reduce the strength of the muscle spasms. Oral medication can also help. Use of deep brain stimulation (application of painless electrical signals to the brain) is becoming increasingly popular due to its success in treatment of more serious types of dystonia which fail to respond to medication or botulinum toxin. Surgery on specific muscle areas is also sometimes considered when medication or botulinum toxin is not successful. There are a range of support services available for those living with dystonia.
For more information see frequently asked questions.
