Dystonia is a neurological disorder that causes excessive, involuntary muscle contractions. These muscle contractions result in abnormal muscle movements and body postures, making it difficult for individuals to control their movements. The movements and postures may be painful. Dystonic movements are typically patterned and repetitive.
Dystonia can affect any region of the body including the eyelids, face, jaw, neck, vocal cords, torso, limbs, hands, and feet. Depending on the region of the body affected, dystonia may look quite different from person to person.
In addition involuntary movements and postures, depression and anxiety are frequent non-motor symptoms of dystonia.For more information on dystonia, be sure to speak with your doctor or look through the Dystonia Foundation website.