Dystonia

Dystonia is best managed by a multidisciplinary team. Whenever possible, treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause (treating infection, stopping a triggering medication, removing a toxin, etc.).

Non-surgical treatment:

• Physical and occupational therapy to reduce contractions and improve function
• Splinting or bracing
• Medications — levodopa, benzodiazepines, antispasmodics, or anticholinergics
• Botox injections into affected muscles to reduce contractions

Surgical treatment:

For severe dystonia that doesn't respond to conservative care, surgical options include:

• Deep brain stimulation — small electrodes are implanted in specific brain regions that control movement to reduce abnormal contractions
• Selective neurotomy — for focal dystonia, the motor nerve branches to the affected muscle are selectively cut to reduce overactivity

These procedures are generally safe and effective for severe, refractory dystonia. Patients typically go home the day after surgery with oral pain medication and return for follow-up within a few days.