MS and Generalized Dystonia

by N.

Question:

Is MS related to generalized dystonia a
rare movement disorder?


REPLY:

Hi N,

Generalized dystonia and multiple sclerosis are related only in the sense that they are both neurological. In MS, only the CNS is involved. The way I understand it, in distonia, the PNS (peripheral nervous system), which connects the CNS to the limbs and organs, is also involved.

Dystonia mainly affects the muscles. It is a neurological movement disorder. Involuntary muscle contractions cause twisting, repetitive movements, or abnormal postures. In MS, the myelin of the nerves is damaged, so that signals to certain parts of the body are disrupted. This can cause weakness and even go as far as paralysis.

Generalized dystonia affects most of the body, frequently involving the legs and back. There are several other types of dystonia, each affecting muscles in different areas of the body. It can be hereditary, but it can have other causes like physical trauma, infection, poison (i.e. lead poisoning), or a reaction to a pharmaceutical drug.

Like MS (multiple sclerosis), there is no cure at present. Treatment is limited to minimizing the symptoms. So, there are a few similarities in the two disorders, but I wouldn't say they are closely related. If anyone else knows differently, please jump right in with an explanation.

Akrista