segmental dystonia

Segmental dystonia is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive muscle contractions affecting two adjacent muscle groups, such as the neck muscles. This results in abnormal postures, twisting movements, and potentially tremors. Dystonias can be inherited or occur sporadically, and some are triggered by medications like levodopa, used for Parkinson disease.1

Treatment varies based on the cause and may include discontinuing the offending drug, medications targeting the nervous system, or surgical interventions like thalamotomy. Botulinum toxin injections are also used to temporarily reduce muscle contractions. Dystonias are associated with the basal ganglia, a part of the brain responsible for controlling movement.12