Etymed
dystonia
Definition
A movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions that cause abnormal, often repetitive movements and postures
Clinical context
A 22-year-old dancer presents with sudden onset of involuntary twisting movements of her neck and arms that worsen with voluntary movement and cause significant functional impairment. She reports that the symptoms started after a minor head injury and have progressively gotten worse over the past month. Physical examination reveals sustained muscle contractions causing abnormal postures and repetitive movements.
Mnemonic
Dystonia = DUMB (distorted, uncontrolled, muscle movements)