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Why Choose Dementech For Dystonia Treatment?
- Same day consultations for early diagnosis
- Industry-leading technology for a faster diagnosis and more effective treatment
- In-house team of clinicians specialising in dystonia treatment and symptom management
- Test results available in as little as 48 hours
- Prices start from just £485
- Access to specialist neurologists who can treat other conditions related to dystonia, such as Parkinson’s disease
- Ongoing support for patients and their families
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What is Dystonia and Why Consider Dystonia Treatment?
Dystonias are neurological movement disorders affecting different parts of the body and causing involuntary muscle contractions, some of which are painful. There are five main types of dystonia:
- Focal dystonia – this type of dystonia affects one part of the body only, with cervical dystonia being a common example (affecting around 40,000 people in the UK)
- Segmental dystonia – this type of dystonia affects two or more areas of the body that are connected, such as cranial dystonia which can affect the jaw and tongue
- Multifocal dystonia – this type of dystonia relates to two or more unconnected areas of the body, such as an arm and a leg
- Generalised dystonia – this affects the trunk of the body and at least two other unconnected areas
- Hemidystonia – this type of dystonia affects an entire side of the body
In around 90% of cases, the patient will have cervical dystonia (in the neck) or blepharospasm (in the eyelids). Generally speaking, these conditions don’t get worse and no other body parts are affected, though treatment is required. At Dementech Neurosciences, we offer a multidisciplinary approach to treating the symptoms of dystonia with our clinicians and therapists, helping you to mitigate your symptoms and live a high quality of life.
Our Happy Patients
They have the latest technology in their domain. From the service I obtained they have very professional and experienced staff; kind and more than eager to help.J Murray
I would like to thank all the staff at Dementech, Zobia and Shakeela at the reception provided excellent customer service and care and both are very friendly. Mr. Stelios Kiosses is truly one of the best, he has been very helpful in every way possible. I highly recommended this clinicN Rayes
Same Day Consultations
At Dementech Neurosciences, we always aim to see patients the same day as they enquire about a consultation, allowing a fast diagnosis and effective treatment to begin.
Same Day Assessment
To diagnose dystonia, a number of tests and assessments may need to be carried out. We endeavour to carry out assessments on the same day as your consultation, with results available 48 hours later.
Patient Advisor Consultations
You will be assigned a Patient Advisor who will be able to talk to you in depth about the next steps, as well as provide support to you and your loved ones. They will also answer any questions you may have.
Prices Starting at £485
Prices for an hour-long consultation start at £485. Each follow up appointment will cost £265. We always maintain full transparency about our costs.
Video Consultations Available
In the event you are unable to come into the clinic for your consultation, we provide video calls via Skype, FaceTime, and Whatsapp. Speak to your clinician to learn more.
Discover More About Dystonia
Dystonia is a group of conditions that each affect the part of the brain responsible for muscle movement, known as the basal ganglia. Ultimately, we don’t know exactly what causes dystonia, though it’s thought to be genetic in some cases. If it’s passed down genetically, or if there is no other known cause, it’s called primary dystonia. Sometimes, dystonia is a symptom of another condition. This is called secondary dystonia.
Secondary dystonia may be caused by:
- Parkinson’s disease
- Huntington’s disease
- Wilson’s disease
- Traumatic brain injury
- Injury at birth
- Stroke
- Brain tumour or certain disorders that develop in some people with cancer
- Oxygen deprivation or carbon monoxide poisoning
- Infections, such as tuberculosis or encephalitis
- Reactions to certain medications or heavy metal poisoning
Dystonia can affect one part of your body, two or more adjacent parts, or all parts of your body. The muscle spasms can range from mild to severe. They may be painful, and they can interfere with your performance of daily tasks. Typically, it is a lifelong diagnosis.
Dystonia Symptoms
Dystonia affects different people in varying ways, with some of the most common symptoms being:
- Uncontrollable muscle spasms
- Painful muscle cramps
- Areas of the body twisting, such as the feet turning inwards or the neck twisting to the side
- Tremors and shaking
- Uncontrollable blinking
In some people, symptoms disappear after a short while, but in others, they continue for extended periods of time. Other key things to note about dystonia include:
- Symptoms can begin in one area, such as your neck, arm or leg
- Focal dystonia usually begins after the age of 21, and starts in the face, arm or necks and tends to remain in this area
- Symptoms can occur during specific actions, such as playing an instrument or while writing
- Symptoms can worsen with anxiety, fatigue, or stress
- Symptoms become noticeable over time
Areas of the body that Dystonia can affect:
Dystonia can affect one or several areas of the body, with some of the most common types and areas including:
- Blepharospasm: Involuntary contractions of muscles around the eyes that cause excessive blinking and spasms of eye closure
- Cervical dystonia: Uncontrollable and often painful muscle contractions in the neck causing awkward postures and discomfort
- Oromandibular (jaw or tongue): Affects the lower facial and jaw muscles causing difficulty opening or closing the mouth, often affecting speech and chewing
- Laryngeal dystonia: Affects the vocal cords through involuntary spasms. These involuntary spasms of the vocal cords causes the voice to change in quality
- Limb dystonia: Causes involuntary movements, cramps or tremor in the hand or arm muscles usually when making hand movements, such as handwriting and playing a musical instrument
- Foot dystonia: Foot dystonia is uncontrollable and often painful muscle contractions in the foot which causes a twisting or turning of the foot
Dystonia Diagnosis & Treatment at Dementech
Accurately diagnosing dystonia is essential for the right treatment plan to be put in place. In order for a diagnosis to be made, a neurologist will need to carry out a series of tests and assessments.
At Dementech Neurosciences, our expert neurologists will provide a comprehensive assessment of the type and severity of this movement disorder for your individual case. To ensure an accurate diagnosis, we will test extensively to form a complete picture of every patient’s condition stage. This may include looking at your family history, doing blood and urine tests, and doing a brain scan.
Dystonia Diagnosis & Treatment at Dementech
The treatment for dystonia includes small amounts of fillers that are injected in the muscles. This is done so that they can block nerve signals that tell the muscles to contract. The effect of the treatment is temporary and lasts for about 12 weeks, but results might vary based on the individual case. Botulinum toxin injections are an example.
Patients treated with botulinum toxin injections can feel the effects from three days to two weeks following treatments, with the effects lasting approximately 3 months.
Other types of treatment may include muscle relaxant medications, physiotherapy to improve your movement and posture, and surgery if other types of treatment don’t work.
Technology Used For Dystonia Treatment
In order to find the right type of treatment, it’s important that an accurate diagnosis is made first time. At Dementech Neurosciences, we have access to the highest quality diagnostic equipment, allowing us to carry out in-depth brain scans so we can clearly see the areas of the brain that are affected and if there’s another condition at play.
We also work with a number of leading clinics across London where you can go for blood tests. Using rapid testing technology, we will have the results back within 48 hours.
Combined with the experience of our neurologists, we are able to quickly and accurately diagnose you, as well as identify the extent of your condition and provide access to the most relevant treatments.
Get Dystonia Treatment Today
Meet our Doctors
Our team of dystonia experts in London provide expert care to diagnose, manage and treat dystonia symptoms.
Prof. K. Ray Chaudhuri – Parkinson’s Specialist in London
Medical & Scientific Advisory Board
Neurologist
Parkinson's Disease
Dr. Giacomo Chiaro – Consultant Neurologist
Neurologist
Dr Tahira Choudry – Neurologist
Neurologist
FAQs About Dystonia
What causes Dystonia?
The exact cause of Dystonia is often unknown, but it can be hereditary or caused by a variety of factors, including brain injury, certain infections, or exposure to certain chemicals or drugs.
How is Dystonia treated?
Dystonia treatment may include medications and muscle relaxants, as well as physical and occupational therapy, botulinum toxin injections, and deep brain stimulation (DBS). The best treatment option depends on the type and severity of Dystonia and other factors, such as age and overall health.
What are the side effects of Dystonia medications?
Common side effects of Dystonia medications can include drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation. Some medications, such as anticonvulsants, can also cause weight gain and increase the risk of developing depression.
Can Dystonia get worse over time?
In some cases, Dystonia can get worse over time, leading to increased disability and difficulty with daily activities. However, the progression of Dystonia can vary greatly from person to person. Regular follow-up care with a healthcare provider is important to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment as needed.
How quickly can I get a tested for Dystonia?
We carry out tests within two days of them being requested, and we will get the results back within 48 hours.
If I am seen privately, will I be removed from the NHS waiting list?
No, you will not be removed from the NHS waiting list if you undertake treatment at Dementech Neurosciences.
What does the consultation entail?
During a consultation, we will carry out an assessment and go through your medical history with a view to getting a diagnosis. From there, you will receive a treatment plan and a full consultation report.
How quickly can I be seen?
Where possible, we aim to see patients the same day. We wil respond to your request within 24 hours (48 hours on weekends).
Have a Question?
Speak to Dystonia Specialists From Our Clinic in London
Our team is on hand to answer any questions or concerns that you may have. Simply fill in the form below with your details, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Contact Dementech Today to Discuss Dystonia Support