Living with Dystonia

Dystonia is a movement disorder that impacts the physical body,
and it can also have an impact on emotional and psychological health.
Living well with dystonia includes treating the physical symptoms, protecting emotional
and psychological well-being, and accommodating your unique needs as an individual.

There is no single strategy for living well with dystonia.
The following suggestions have been compiled from individuals with dystonia, support leaders, and healthcare professionals.

Seek Out Expert Healthcare Providers

It often takes a team of experienced professionals to diagnose and treat dystonia. This may include a movement disorder neurologist, physical therapist/occupational therapist, psychiatrist, psychotherapist/counselor, pain management specialist, or other healthcare providers.

Cautiously Explore Complementary Therapies

Talk to your doctor about non-traditional therapies that interest you. Different complementary approaches may work for different people, but keep in mind there are numerous practitioners who falsely claim to have a unique ability to treat dystonia.

Seek Out Expert Healthcare Providers

It often takes a team of experienced professionals to diagnose and treat dystonia. This may include a movement disorder neurologist, physical therapist/occupational therapist, psychiatrist, psychotherapist/counselor, pain management specialist, or other healthcare providers.

Actively Participate in Your Treatment

Learn about dystonia. Investigate treatment options and make choices about your care with the input of your medical team.

Exercise

The benefits of exercise can be profound: strength, endurance, energy, stress reduction. Consider working with a physical therapist to develop an exercise plan that works for you.

Remain as Active and Social as Possible

It may be physically and/or mentally demanding to go certain places or complete specific tasks. Plan ahead, pace yourself, and rest when needed.

Develop a Multi-Layered Support System

Seek out supportive family and friends, local dystonia support groups, online support groups, community events, and self-help resources. Enlist the help of a psychotherapist or counselor to help navigate concerns and vulnerabilities.

Seek Help When You Need It

If you need assistance, reach out and be specific about what you are having trouble with. Accept help when offered—and without guilt.

Embrace Awkward Social Situations

Your symptoms may flare at extremely inconvenient times. Strangers may misinterpret your body language. Be forgiving with yourself in these moments.

Treat Depression & Anxiety

Depression and anxiety can dramatically impact quality of life and the severity of motor symptoms. Consider being evaluated for depression and/or anxiety and, if symptoms are present, seek treatment.

Do Things You Enjoy

It can be easy to let pleasurable activities and fun fall by the way side. Create space in your routine for experiences that invigorate you and keep you going.

Listen to Your Body

Respect and honor your individual need for sleep, rest, nutrition, exercise, relaxation, and time/scheduling. Keep a journal to record responses to treatment, triggers, and the factors that make you feel better or worse.

Be Mindful of Stress

Regular stress reduction and relaxation practices can have a positive impact on symptoms and overall well-being.

Contact the DMRF if You Need Assistance

If you have questions and concerns about dystonia and are not sure where to turn, start by contacting the DMRF at 
[email protected] or 800-377-3978.

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