International Federation of Musicians (FIM) International Health Database – Dystonia and Ulnaropathy

Definition, classification and diagnosis of focal dystonia in musicians:

Dystonia is defined as involuntary spasms and muscle (co-)contractions that induce abnormal movements and/or postures. In general it is a relatively unknown entity and it is estimated that as few as 5% is correctly diagnosed (Dystonia Medical Research Foundation). Classification of dystonia is according to its etiology, distribution and phenomenology. Focal dystonias occur in the facial or neck muscles, e.g. blepharospasm and spasmodic torticollis, or in the upper extremity, e.g. occupational cramps (“craft palsy”), like writer’s or musician’s cramp.