This article was originally published in the Dystonia Dialogue. The DMRF was only a few years old in the late 1970s when Susan Aguilera’s seven-year-old daughter Emma was diagnosed with dystonia by a special panel of neurologists in San Diego. Finally there was an explanation for why her little girl had lost the ability to […]
Researchers at Massachusetts Eye and Ear in Boston led by Kristina Simonyan, MD, PhD, Dr med have developed a unique diagnostic tool that detects dystonia from MRI scans, the first technology of its kind to provide an objective diagnosis of the disorder. Dr. Simonyan is a former member of the DMRF Medical & Scientific Advisory […]
There are many types of dystonia, often presenting with very distinct symptoms. There is also a great deal of overlap in the physical manifestation of symptoms across the different types. Non-motor symptoms are common, including psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety. There have been numerous genes identified to cause dystonia, and it is not […]
The Musicians With Dystonia program of the DMRF has been renamed The Leon Fleisher Foundation for Musicians with Dystonia, in memory of the influential and beloved pianist and prominent public champion for dystonia. Mr. Fleisher sadly passed away earlier this year. The Leon Fleisher Foundation for Musicians with Dystonia was created in 2000 by French […]
This article was originally published in the Dystonia Dialogue. The Covid-19 outbreak has had a disproportionate impact on individuals with disabilities and chronic medical conditions, including those with dystonia. There has been widespread disruption of local public services, delays in treatment appointments, and changes to everyday routines. The DMRF checked in with several members of […]
The DMRF family sends our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of pianist extraordinaire Leon Fleisher who passed away on August 2 at the age of 92. Mr. Fleisher inspired countless audiences with his spectacular talent. He served as mentor for many musically gifted young artists and helped them tremendously with their careers. Mr. […]
Dystonia is a movement disorder characterized by excessive muscle contractions that cause abnormal movements and postures. Dystonia is not caused by pathology in a specific brain structure, but by dysfunctional circuits of communication between multiple brain areas responsible for coordinating and controlling body movement. Despite substantial progress made in understanding various aspects of dystonia, there […]
Many individuals with dystonia seek out complementary and integrative therapies to help manage symptoms, including massage. However, the use of massage for dystonia is not well documented or studied. A recent case report, using objective rating scales, suggests that massage can temporarily reduce pain intensity, pain and spasm frequency, and dystonia symptoms in activities of […]
This content originally appeared in the Dystonia Dialogue. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) estimate that 60% of Americans are not active at the recommended levels for good health. The merits of exercise have been studied extensively, including in neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. Researchers are beginning to examine […]
New face masks are available from the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF). They are 100% cotton jersey, 3 ply construction with two layers of jersey with a non-woven center for additional filtration. $10 a piece. Help raise awareness of dystonia while following public health recommendations Click here to order.
Dystonia Community
How You Can Help
There are many benefits to joining a dystonia support group. Find the support group nearest you and enjoy the rewards.
You can connect with others in the dystonia community who are committed to making a difference. Getting involved is empowering.
The Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) has stood up for the dystonia community since 1976. Join us in our global effort to find a cure.
Copyright ©2023 Dystonia Medical Research Foundation | All Rights Reserved.
English