Overview
Dystonia is a condition where the muscles in one body part contract or twist in an uncontrollable manner.
Dystonia is a condition where the muscles in one body part contract or twist in an uncontrollable manner, leading to repetitive contractions and contortions of the affected part, pain and discomfort. Dystonia can affect various body parts including the neck, eyelids, mouth and face, shoulder, arm, leg and foot. The affect body part may twist uncontrollably, become tremulous, cramp or be subject to functional difficulties such as altered speech, dragging of feet, inability to use the affected hand etc.
The condition affects about 1% of the population, can be de novo (starts spontaneously) or secondary to certain drug treatments and brain conditions.
Multi-modal
Assessment
Signs
The symptoms of dystonia vary from mild to severe and can impact different parts of the body, depending on the type. Some types affect posture.
The symptoms can be painful, and there may also be a tremor or other neurological symptoms.
- A "dragging leg"
- Cramping of the foot
- Involuntary pulling of the neck
- Uncontrollable blinking
- Speech difficulties
Multi-modal
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
While the diagnosis is clinical, brain imaging, electrophysiology, blood tests to rule out reversible causes or indeed contributing factors and a thorough pre-rehabilitation assessment including evaluation for co-morbidities (associated conditions) will be required in all instances. At Buddhi Clinic our assessment includes standard outcome indicators for activities of daily life, quality of life, neuro-disability and mental health.
Treatment
At Buddhi Clinic we have a holistic approach to dystonia care and management. Apart from medication, neuromodulation (rTMS & tDCS), physical therapy, Ayurveda, acupressure and manual treatments and relaxation training can all be combined to provide a holistic solution.
