Complementary Therapies

Complementary therapy may play an active role in your treatment of dystonia, and it is intended to be used in conjunction with traditional therapies. To avoid any interactions and potential problems, it is important to have open communication among all physicians and practitioners who are working with you.

It is very important that any practitioners of complementary therapies who you consult are familiar with dystonia or willing to learn about it prior to treating you. The DMRF can provide materials to help you educate your healthcare professionals.

Complementary Approaches to Pain Management

It can be helpful to find a good physical therapist to relieve pain caused by dystonia, especially someone who is well versed in neurology and movement disorders, who can work on compensatory mechanisms involving muscles and posture. Complementary therapies, which are not a replacement for standard medical treatments, may be used in conjunction with other treatments.

These complementary therapies may include:

• Acupuncture: A form of traditional Chinese medicine used for pain relief that involves needle insertion into the affected areas.
• Reiki: A Japanese technique of hands-on therapy for stress reduction and relaxation.
• Alexander Technique: A therapy for stress-related chronic conditions that focuses on improving posture.
• Gentle massage: Rubbing of the soft tissues of the body.
• Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) device: A type of pain relief therapy that uses a low-voltage electrical current to block pain or change one’s perception of it.
• Yoga: A mind and body practice that involves movement, breathing exercises, and a focus on thoughts and feelings as they happen (mindfulness).

In addition to all these complementary therapies, getting enough sleep is an integral part of dystonia care as sleep disorders are very common and poor sleep can lead to pain aggravation.