Both can have relaxation and physiological benefits. Dystonia is a disorder that impacts every aspect of an affected individual's life. The muscle contractions and postures that characterize dystonia not only impair the ability to perform specific movements, but may also affect stamina and general mobility. Under the guidance of a physical therapist and a physician, an individual may learn to recognize compensatory movements and habits that may have developed as a result of the dystonia. Being aware of activities that aggravate symptoms and learning beneficial substitute methods may contribute to improved motor control.
Physical therapy is tailored to the needs and circumstances of the individual.
Posture and Alignment Kathleen Albany, P.T., a physical therapist practicing in New Jersey, stresses the importance of posture and body alignment for affected and unaffected persons alike. Working with a therapist to find an optimal posture will help to reduce spasms, preserve range of motion, minimize potential injury, and reduce stresses on compensating regions of the body. For instance, a person who has a case of cervical dystonia that pulls the head to the right should not stretch the neck over to the left to watch television or have a conversation. Fighting the contractions and postures may aggravate the dystonia. From her experiences of working with people affected by dystonia, Albany has found that many develop movements or postures to compensate for the dystonia.