Dystonia

Overview

Dystonia can affect one area, like the neck (cervical dystonia), eyelids, or hand (writer's cramp), or the whole body.

Some medicines can cause sudden dystonia.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Twisting or stuck muscles

Less common

• Neck turning
• Tremor
• Pain

When to get medical care

Causes

Brain signals, medicines.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Exam:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Physical therapy
• Do stretching exercises

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults 40 to 60: Focal types most common.
• Adults 40 to 60: Neck dystonia most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Treatment eases symptoms.

Botox helps many.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• Would Botox shots help?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Dystonia