Mouth, tongue and jaw dystonia

Other names: Oromandibular dystonia

Type: Focal

Oromandibular dystonia is a neurological movement disorder characterised by continuous or intermittent muscle contractions which cause abnormal, often painful, repetitive movements in the mouth, tongue and/or jaw. The movements can happen at rest, but often happen when people are using their mouths e.g. talking or eating.

Oromandibular dystonia can be experienced together with eye dystonia (blepharospasm). The medical term for this is Meige syndrome. Although oromandibular dystonia most commonly develops following spread of dystonia from the neck or eyes, it can also appear in isolation. Where the condition comes on in mid-life without obvious cause, it will not usually spread further.

Oromandibular dystonia should be diagnosed and treated by a neurologist specialising in movement disorders.