Dystonia is a neurological condition that is estimated to affect at least 100,000 people in the UK.

Dystonia is a neurological condition that presents with uncontrollable muscle spasms. The spasms are caused by incorrect signals from the brain. For some, these can be painful. Dystonia is a type of movement disorder. It is the 3rd most common movement disorder after Parkinson’s and essential tremor.

Who does dystonia affect?

Dystonia affects both adults and children. Dystonia which starts in adult life usually presents in one or two parts of the body while if symptoms start in childhood, it tends to spread across multiple parts of the body and be more generalised.

Dystonia affects people of all backgrounds, ages, races and circumstances.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms can vary a lot between the different types of dystonia and from person to person. The common motor symptoms - symptoms that affect people's movement - can include:

• uncontrolled muscle cramps and spasms
• body parts twisting into unusual positions
• shaking (tremor)
• uncontrolled blinking
• vision loss
• a breathy or strangled-sounding voice
• slurred speech
• hand cramps

Some people also experience non-motor symptoms including pain, sleep disturbance and mental health issues.

What causes dystonia?

The cause of dystonia is not yet fully understood. In some cases, it can be attributed to a chemical imbalance in the part of the brain which helps to control movement called the basal ganglia.

Are there different types of dystonia?

There are many different causes and types of dystonia. Dystonia can affect any region of the body including the eyelids, face, jaw, vocal cords, torso, limbs, hands, and feet. Dystonia is often referred to by different names depending on the part of the body it affects.

Can dystonia be treated?

There are several different treatments that can help to reduce the symptoms of dystonia. The main treatments of dystonia are:

• regular injections of a medicine called botulinum toxin directly into the affected muscles
• medications normally taken as tablets
• a type of surgery called deep brain stimulation

It is usually a lifelong condition, however, in most cases it is not life limiting.

Where can you find out more?

Our free digital information booklet answers the most common question we get asked - What is dystonia? It includes an overview of dystonia, symptoms, causes and the different forms and types.

Where can you find support?

If you or someone you know have been diagnosed with dystonia, Dystonia UK and our volunteers are here for you.