What Are The Types Of Dystonia?

Hemidystonia

Hemidystonia affects either the right or left side of the body. Patients with this condition generally have abnormal movements in the leg and arm of their affected side, and one side of the face could be affected occasionally. Symptoms associated with this form of dystonia include twisting of the affected arm or leg, and the foot, leg, or arm on the affected side could turn inward. Some individuals might also have muscle spasms of the mouth or face on their affected side. Hemidystonia is typically the result of an underlying medical condition such as cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, tumors, head injuries, or strokes. Treatment methods for this condition are similar to those for other types of dystonia. Patients may be offered botulinum toxin injections for symptoms isolated to small areas, and oral medications are the primary treatment option. Anticholinergic medications, including trihexyphenidyl, are often the first medications doctors prescribe. These medicines reduce tremors and muscle spasms. Patients might also need to take a muscle relaxant such as clonazepam or baclofen. For cases of idiopathic hemidystonia, doctors might consider surgical procedures such as deep brain stimulation.

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