brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Dystonia
Introduction
Dystonia is characterized by long-lasting (sustained) involuntary muscle contractions that may force people into abnormal positions—for example, causing the entire body, the trunk, limbs, or neck to twist. Dystonia may result from a genetic mutation, a disorder, or a drug. Muscles in the affected part of the body contract, distorting the position of that body part, and stay contracted for many minutes to hours. Doctors base the diagnosis on symptoms and results of a physical examination. The cause is corrected if possible, but if not, drugs, such as mild sedatives,levodopapluscarbidopa, and botulinum toxin, may help relieve symptoms. (See also Overview of Movement Disorders .) 