Definition
Focal dystonia is an irregular movement disorder specific to one part of the body. In dystonia, muscle contractions cause irregular movements, twitches, tics, and twisted or repetitive postures which may be sustained or intermittent.
Focal dystonia can be treated. If you suspect you have this condition, contact your doctor.
The most common types of focal dystonia are:
- Blepharospasm (an eye twitch)—affecting the eyes
- Cervical dystonia or spasmodic torticollis—affecting the neck
- Segmental cranial dystonia (Meige syndrome)—affecting the jaw, tongue and eyes
- Oromandibular dystonia—affecting the jaw
- Spasmodic dysphonia—affecting the vocal cords
- Axial dystonia—affecting the trunk
- Dystonia of the arm (eg, writer's cramp)
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