Journal of Hand Therapy
Volume 22, Issue 2 , Pages 109-114, April 2009

The Pathophysiology of Focal Hand Dystonia

  • Peter T. Lin, MD

      Affiliations

    • Corresponding Author InformationCorrespondence and reprint requests to Peter T. Lin, MD, Human Motor Control Section, NINDS, 10 Center Drive, NIH Building 10, Room 7D37, Bethesda, MD 20892-1428
    • ,
  • Mark Hallett, MD

Human Motor Control Section, NINDS/NIH, Bethesda, Maryland

published online 13 February 2009.

Abstract 

Narrative Review

Focal hand dystonia is a disabling movement disorder, often task specific, that leads to impaired hand use. In addition to a genetic predisposition, environmental risk factors including repetitive use and musculoskeletal constraints are contributory. Although the underlying cause is unknown, recent studies have identified several key mechanisms that may play a part in its genesis. Failure of inhibition, abnormal sensorimotor integration, and maladaptive plasticity seem to be important. Understanding the underlying physiology may lead to the design of novel therapies.

Level of Evidence

5.

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PII: S0894-1130(08)00179-8

doi:10.1016/j.jht.2008.10.008

Journal of Hand Therapy
Volume 22, Issue 2 , Pages 109-114, April 2009

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