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Dystonia

Dystonia is a movement disorder that causes the muscles to contract and spasm involuntarily.

Some facts about dystonia are as follows:

  • The neurological mechanism that makes muscles relax when they are not in use does not function correctly, causing opposing muscles to contract simultaneously.
  • Can affect people of all ages and backgrounds.

Elements shared by the different types of dystonia: repetitive, patterned, and often twisting, involuntary muscle contractions.

  • Disrupts the nervous system’s ability to effectively communicate between the brain and the muscles.
  • May affect one muscle, a group of muscles, or all muscles.

 Treatment for dystonia:

  • Physical, Occupational, and Speech therapies
  • Botulinum Toxin (Botox) injections
  • Baclofen Pump implants
  • Oral Medications

Baclofen and Botox are most effective when used in combination with physical, occupational, and/or speech therapies


Erlanger Resources

Pediatric Neurology