Dystonia Europe

Focal dystonia is a neurological disorder that affects specific muscles or muscle groups, causing involuntary contractions and abnormal postures. It can impact various parts of the body, such as the neck (cervical dystonia), hand (writer's cramp), or vocal cords (spasmodic dysphonia). The symptoms can be unpredictable and disruptive, but through determination and resilience, individuals can learn to adapt and manage their symptoms effectively. Neurologists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists can provide valuable guidance and treatment options tailored to the unique needs of each individual. By working closely with these experts, individuals can develop personalized strategies to improve their quality of life and minimize the impact of focal dystonia on their daily activities. Connecting with support groups and online communities such as Dystonia Europe and our member organizations can be immensely beneficial. These platforms allow individuals to share their experiences, exchange coping mechanisms, and provide emotional support. Knowing that others are going through similar challenges can be empowering and create a sense of belonging. In addition to seeking professional help and connecting with others, it is crucial to develop individualized coping mechanisms. These can include relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, which help manage stress levels and reduce muscle tension. Physical activities like yoga or tai chi may also improve flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. It is important to remember that dystonia does not define a person; rather, it is their strength, resilience, and ability to navigate through adversity that truly defines them. Stay strong, never give up, and continue to inspire others with your journey. Like, comment and share if you found this post helpful. You can help us spread awareness about dystonia with these simple actions! #dystonia #dystoniaawareness #movementdisorder #braindisorder #fightfordystonia #dystoniafighter #focaldystonia

Franklin D. Roosevelt inspires us to conquer doubt. As we face dystonia, let's embrace hope and confidence in our abilities, and watch our world change for the better. 🌈 Like, comment and share if you found this motivating. You can help us spread awareness about dystonia by sending this to a friends who needs it! 🤗 #dystonia #motivationmonday #mondaymotivation #movementdisordermotivation #dystoniaawareness #movementdisorder #braindisorder #fightfordystonia #dystoniafighter #cervicaldystonia #blepharospasm #generalizeddystonia

We are delighted to announce the call for applications of the David Marsden Award 2025. The award is for young researchers in the field of dystonia living in Europe. Application is submitted on the David Marsden Award website: https://lnkd.in/eJYEeHh4 Last day of submission is 28 February 2025.

Alice Walker's insight on power is a call to action. With dystonia, let's recognize our power and use it to shape our lives positively. 💪 We are stronger than we often realize. Like, comment and share if you found this motivating. You can help us spread awareness about dystonia by sending this to a friends who needs it! 🤗 #dystonia #motivationmonday #mondaymotivation #movementdisordermotivation #dystoniaawareness #movementdisorder #braindisorder #fightfordystonia #dystoniafighter #cervicaldystonia #blepharospasm #generalizeddystonia

Successful day in Newcastle upon Tyne where we held a course about physiotherapy and cervical dystonia for physiotherapists. Participants came from the region as well as other parts of the UK! There was a session on dystonia, genetics, BTX treatment by a neurologist. Then followed sessions with physiotherapist Johanna Blom who explained the importance of physiotherapy treatment. Analysis and assessment with live dystonia patients were followed by ideas and examples of treatment exercises for them. We thank everyone for a fruitful and inspiring day!

characterized by involuntary muscle contractions. It focuses on improving movement, function, and motor control. Physiotherapists use exercises and techniques to help patients regain muscle control and reduce involuntary movements, resulting in improved stability and posture. Pain relief is also addressed through techniques like manual therapy and stretching. Functional limitations caused by dystonia are tackled through personalized treatment plans aimed at enhancing dexterity, coordination, and strength. Additionally, physiotherapy provides emotional support for individuals with dystonia, promoting overall well-being. It is crucial to tailor physiotherapy interventions to meet each person's specific needs. Overall, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in improving movement and quality of life for individuals with dystonia. Consult a physiotherapist to explore potential benefits. Like, comment and share if you found this post helpful. You can help us spread awareness about dystonia with these simple actions! #dystonia #dystoniaawareness #movementdisorder #braindisorder #fightfordystonia #dystoniafighter #cervicaldystonia #blepharospasm #generalizeddystonia Physiotherapy is crucial for managing dystonia, a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions. Its main focus is to improve movement, function, and motor control. Physiotherapists utilize various exercises and techniques to assist patients in regaining muscle control and reducing involuntary movements, resulting in enhanced stability and posture. Furthermore, techniques like manual therapy and stretching are employed to address pain relief. Personalized treatment plans are developed to tackle functional limitations caused by dystonia, aiming to enhance dexterity, coordination, and strength. Emotional support is also provided, promoting overall well-being. To explore the potential benefits, consult a physiotherapist. Help spread awareness about dystonia by liking, commenting, and sharing this post. #dystonia #dystoniaawareness #movementdisorder #braindisorder #fightfordystonia #dystoniafighter #cervicaldystonia #blepharospasm #generalizeddystonia

In this episode of The Positive Twist Podcast Jenny Sixt joins us to share about a fascinating therapy called Alexander Technique. "The Alexander Technique is a skill for self-development teaching you to change long-standing habits that cause unnecessary tension in everything you do" (alexandertechnique.co.uk). The therapy is used by musicians and has been known to help people with Dystonia. Listen here: https://bit.ly/JennySixt #positivetwist #dystonia Like, comment and share if you found this post helpful. You can help us spread awareness about dystonia with these simple actions! #dystonia #dystoniaawareness #movementdisorder #braindisorder #fightfordystonia #dystoniafighter #cervicaldystonia #blepharospasm #generalizeddystonia

Abraham Lincoln's advice to create our future is empowering. With dystonia, let's take charge of our narrative and shape a future filled with hope and achievements. 🌟 Like, comment and share if you found this motivating. You can help us spread awareness about dystonia by sending this to a friends who needs it! 🤗 #dystonia #motivationmonday #mondaymotivation #movementdisordermotivation #dystoniaawareness #movementdisorder #braindisorder #fightfordystonia #dystoniafighter #cervicaldystonia #blepharospasm #generalizeddystonia

Today we are at the University Hospital in Ljubljana in Slovenia for the annual meeting of the European Reference Network for Rare Neurological Diseases. Prof Holm Graessner from Tuebingen, welcomed the participants and then gave an update on the network activities of the last year. Then followed a presentation by the patient representatives of the network on “how to optimize the patient journey”. John Gerbild from Denmark gave a moving testimony of an ataxia patient he met some time ago and this man misses the most to be able to cook delicious meals. Monika showed the Dystonia Physio Hub and how this can be one of the tools/steps to a multidisciplinary care for cervical dystonia patients. The focus for the rest of the day is various expert presentations on EU initiatives on rare diseases and research opportunities, training programs,drug development.

Robert Louis Stevenson's perspective on planting seeds is a reminder for us. Living with dystonia, let's focus on the small acts and thoughts that build a hopeful future. 🌱 Like, comment and share if you found this motivating. You can help us spread awareness about dystonia by sending this to a friends who needs it! 🤗 #dystonia #motivationmonday #mondaymotivation #movementdisordermotivation #dystoniaawareness #movementdisorder #braindisorder #fightfordystonia #dystoniafighter #cervicaldystonia #blepharospasm #generalizeddystonia