Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder that causes unwarranted muscle contractions, making it difficult to control movement, and can distort body posture. Movements are typically patterned and repetitive, causing pain and abnormal muscle movement Dystonia can affect one or several areas of the body.
A movement disorder specialist can identify the area or areas of the body that are affected. Some of the most common types of dystonia include:
- Focal Dystonia – only one area of the body, such as the neck, torso, or hand
- Laryngeal Dystonia – affects the vocal cord
- Oromandibular Dystonia – causes forceful contractions to the face, jaw, and tongue
- Rapid-onset Dystonia – Hereditary form caused by genes
- Generalized Dystonia – several areas are affected such as neck, torso, tremors, and feet
The other problem with dystonia is the lack of knowledge and awareness. This causes misconceptions and misinterpretations that render treatment and diagnosis difficult. Today, we discuss the five myths related to dystonia that need to be eliminated to tackle the disorder.
It Does Not Exist
The most common myth about dystonia is people say it doesn’t exist. The denial of its existence is as damaging as the disease itself. Many people and medical professionals associate the condition with mental illness and undermine the physical pain and disturbance it poses.
It Is Just a Muscle Problem
Muscles suffer the most in dystonia, and it causes mild to severe body discomfort. But dystonia doesn’t only affect the body; it can also negatively impact the brain. Studies have shown that the abnormalities are found in the ganglia (part of the brain responsible for body movement) in patients with dystonia.
Muscle relaxants, Botox injections, and DBS (deep brain stimulation) can be effective treatments for this condition. Sensory tricks are often used as temporary measures to control the pain. Many people with cervical dystonia will often rest their chin on a hand or apply pressure to a painful area.
Dystonia can also lead to anxiety and depression. Although the connection between dystonia and mental disorders is complex, research says that up to 70% of people with dystonia have experienced anxiety and/or depression.
Vaccination Causes Dystonia
Another misconception is that vaccinations cause dystonia. This is entirely untrue, as this claim is based on incomplete information. The claim is based on an incident where a woman was diagnosed with dystonia after getting a flu vaccination.
It is Not Painful
There cannot be any logical explanation for the myth that dystonia is not painful. Many people believe that it is just the mind that is playing tricks on the body. Studies and research have proven that physical disorder is painful and can vary in severity.
Lack of Research
There is no denying that dystonia is still a complicated disease, and its cause in some cases is yet to be discovered. But medical researchers and experts have found that the causes of dystonia depend on multiple factors. This includes:
- Genetic Mutations
- Brain injury
- Various infections
- Exposure to certain drugs
The process of research and development has been enhanced over the years. Researchers worldwide have joined hands in finding the root cause and – ultimately, a cure for the disease. The research organizations are continuously funded for the advancements of research methods. Organizations like DMRF, the National Institutes of Health, and the Department of Defence are working on finding answers.
As for the people, it is important for everyone to reach out to the right sources for accurate and authentic information regarding the disease. Karen Kieltyka’s book Climbing and Falling is based on a personal encounter with dystonia, its effects on life, and the guide to correctly treating the disorder.
Karen stresses that it will take a combined effort from everyone to get rid of dystonia to live healthy, happy lives.
