Focal Dystonia Causes & Risks

Causes

Dystonias are caused by an abnormality in the basal ganglia of the brain, which is where messages that initiate muscle contractions are processed. Factors that may cause focal dystonia include:

Birth injury (eg, lack of oxygen)
Infection
Reactions to medications
Heavy metal poisoning
Carbon monoxide poisoning
Trauma
Stroke
Other diseases
Inherited abnormalities of the basal ganglia
Vitamin B12 deficiency

The Process of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Decreasing Available Oxygen

Risk Factors

The following factors increase your chance of developing focal dystonia. If you have any of these risk factors, tell your doctor:

Family history of dystonia
Recent exposure to an antinausea or antipsychotic medication

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2026 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.