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  • lower-limb-dystonia
  1. About dystonia
  2. Types of dystonia
  3. Lower limb dystonia

Lower limb dystonia

Other names: Focal foot dystonia / Focal leg dystonia

Type: Focal but may lead to generalised dystonia

Lower limb dystonia is a neurological movement disorder characterised by continuous or intermittent muscle contractions which cause abnormal, often painful, repetitive movements with the leg, foot or toes. Lower limb dystonia can affect how a person walks or runs and may require the use of mobility devices such as crutches, walkers, or wheelchairs.

Lower limb dystonia is a neurological movement disorder and should be diagnosed and treated by a neurologist specialising in movement disorders.

What are the symptoms?

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Symptoms of lower limb dystonia include:

  • twisting or turning of the foot
  • foot points downward
  • extension of big toe
  • toe curling
  • a sense of tightness or stiffness in the limb
  • changes in walking or running gait
  • tremor
  • pain

Stress and anxiety are known to exacerbate the symptoms.

Published: 1st June, 2020

Author: Bernie McMahon

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Who does it affect?

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  • In children and young adults, muscle spasms in the foot or leg can be an early sign of a generalised (whole body) dystonia.
  • In focal foot dystonia (dystonia that only affects the foot) symptoms generally appear between the ages of 30 and 50.

Published: 2nd June, 2020

Author: Bernie McMahon

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What are the causes?

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There are a number of known causes for lower limb dystonia including:

  • brain injury
  • stroke
  • injury to the limb

Published: 3rd June, 2020

Author: Bernie McMahon

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What are the most common treatments?

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  • Botulinum toxin injections
  • Oral medication
  • Physiotherapy
  • Self-help techniques

Published: 4th June, 2020

Author: Bernie McMahon

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How will it affect my life?

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You may need to find ways to adapt and might have to learn new ways to complete everyday tasks. However, it is possible to live well with the condition and Dystonia UK is here to support you through all stages including initial onset, diagnosis, finding treatment and beyond.

You may find these coping techniques helpful:

  • Some people find the symptoms of lower limb dystonia may occur while walking forwards but improve or disappear when walking backwards.
  • Some individuals may be able to temporarily lessen symptoms with a ‘sensory trick’ to another part of the body, such as gently touching the face or head.

Published: 5th June, 2020

Author: Bernie McMahon

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You might also be interested in

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Published: 6th June, 2020

Updated: 25th June, 2020

Author: Bernie McMahon

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