Dystonia Disease – The Factors Leading to Abnormal Muscle Tone

Dystonia disease is categorized as a movement disorder, because of which the sufferer might experience uncontrolled and repetitive muscle contractions leading to twisting of muscles and unusual postures. This condition can deteriorate one’s ability to perform physical activities including simple daily chores normally.

Dystonia Disease – Types of Dystonia and Their Causes

Dystonia disease is classified into the following types, generalised, multifocal, segmental, hemidystonia. As the name suggests generalized dystonia affects all parts of the body and focal dystonia affects certain parts of the body. Multifocal dystonia affects two or more unrelated body parts and segmental dystonia affects two or more adjacent body parts. Hemidystonia affects the arm and leg of same side of the body. It occurs as a result of improper functioning of part of the brain that controls movement of muscles. Dystonia disease could be a birth defect as a result of hereditary factors, but can also be developed after brain injury, excessive exposure to some drugs, etc.

Dystonia Symptoms – Learn the Signs

Dystonia symptoms might vary with the various types of dystonia and from person to person. However, the most noticeable symptoms of this ailment are involuntary movement of muscles, rapid blinking movement of eyes, impaired speech, etc. The signs of this ailment are likely to exacerbate due to prolonged stress and tension or after a vigorous physical activity. One of the most annoying signs of this disorder is shooting pain or cramps in the muscles. A person suffering from dystonia might also exhibit aggression, mood swings and behavioural problems. Feeling of tiredness and fatigue, sensitivity to light, etc., are also very prominent dystonia symptoms.

Dystonia Treatment – Recovery Tips

Unfortunately, no permanent cure has been devised for dystonia as of yet. However, certain medications are prescribed to normalize the activity of neurotransmitters present in the brain. Diazepam, levodopa, benztropine, baclofen, etc., are recommended for dystonia treatment. However, these should not be taken without doctor’s consent and prescription. Some muscle relaxant drugs also work wonders for controlling the symptoms of dystonia. Physiotherapy and certain sensory tricks are also suggested to abate the signs of this disorder. Deep brain stimulation therapy and selective peripheral denervation are commonly prescribed forms of brain surgery for severe cases of dystonia and are known to be very effective.