Long-term outcome of focal dystonia in string instrumentalists

Stephan Schuele*, Richard J. Lederman

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

79 Scopus citations

Abstract

This study describes the clinical characteristics and long-term outcome in string instrumentalists with focal task-specific dystonia. We present the results of a follow-up telephone survey of 21 violin and viola players with focal dystonia. Eighteen musicians responded to the questionnaire. Information on long-term outcome was available on average 13.8 years after onset of symptoms. Main complaints were playing-related loss of control and involuntary movements affecting the fingering hand in 16 and the bow arm in 5 patients. In 18 patients (86%), signs of abnormal posture could be detected by watching them play their instrument. Treatment attempts included nerve decompression, physical therapy, retraining, and anticholinergic medication. In selected patients, botulinum toxin injections or splint devices were offered. Only 38% of the performing artists were able to maintain their professional careers, among them none with bow arm dystonia. Focal dystonia may affect the fingering hand or bow arm in violin and viola instrumentalists. Treatment benefit is limited and in more than half of the patients, dystonia leads to the end of their musical career.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)43-48
Number of pages6
JournalMovement Disorders
Volume19
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2004

Keywords

  • Focal dystonia
  • Long-term outcome
  • Musician
  • Treatment

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Neurology
  • Neurology

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