Dystonia and CRPS Study

The NIH/NINDS is sponsoring an outpatient research study assessing patients with Focal Dystonia (FD). FD is a condition where specific movements of the hand trigger acute overactivity in muscles involved in the intended task and activity spreads to adjacent muscles that were supposed to be relaxed. We think the underlying reason of this condition is a lack of suppression of the unwanted muscle activity in the brain. In complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) without obvious nerve damage, dystonia-like muscle spasms can occur.

In a series of tests including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), electromyography (EMG) and electroencephalography (EEG), individuals with FD, CRPS and both conditions in the upper or lower limb will be compared. Our goal is to find out more about the underlying mechanisms of both conditions. Studies are conducted at the NIH Clinical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.

Inclusion criteria - patients

• Presence of FD/CRPS/CRPS and FD in one limb (upper or lower limb)
• Age 18 years or older

Exclusion criteria

• Any serious medical, surgical, neurological or psychiatric conditions
• Medications such as the following: antidepressants, anxiolytics, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, antiparkinsonians, hypnotics, stimulants, and antihistamines (please tell the research doctor what you take, if anything)
• Presence of pacemaker, implanted medical pump, metal plate or metal object in skull or eye
• History of seizure disorder
• Known history of hearing loss.
• Pregnancy
• Use of blood thinners other than a daily aspirin

There is no cost for participation. You will be compensated for research-related travel expenses. Time commitment consists of 5 visits.

For more information, call (301) 496 6388, Sandra C Beck, MD.

This study is carried out in compliance with testing and safety standards of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.