Etymed
myotonia
Definition
A neuromuscular disorder characterized by the inability to relax muscles after contraction, resulting in sustained muscle stiffness and spasms
Clinical context
A 28-year-old man presents to the emergency department after sustaining a severe muscle cramp in his left leg following intense exercise. He reports that his muscles remain rigid and painful for hours after exertion, and he has a family history of similar episodes. On examination, his muscles show delayed relaxation when contracted. An electromyogram reveals sustained muscle fiber activity. The patient's condition is diagnosed as myotonia, a neuromuscular disorder characterized by the inability to relax muscles after contraction, resulting in sustained muscle stiffness and spasms.
Mnemonic
MYOTONIA = Muscle Yawn TO Neurons In Abnormal Activity