Focal Dystonia Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

If you experience any of these symptoms do not assume focal dystonia is the cause. These symptoms may be attributed to other, less serious health conditions. If you experience any one of them, see your doctor.

Eyelid spasms
Rapid or uncontrollable blinking of both eyes
Neck twisting
Difficulty handwriting
Foot cramps
Pulling or dragging of a foot
Tremor
Voice or speech difficulties

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Your doctor may refer you to a speech-language pathologist, physical or occupational therapists, and/or genetic counselors.

Tests may include the following:

A careful family history
Blood tests
Urine tests
Cerebrospinal fluid tests
Genetic tests
Electromyography —to determine the health of the muscles and nerves
Electroencephalography —a test that records the brain’s activity by measuring electrical currents through the brain, used to detect or rule out seizures
Skin, muscle, and/or nerve tissue biopsies
Eye examination
Neurologic evaluation—to rule out other neurological disorders
MRI scan —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the head
CT scan —a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the head

Electroencephalography

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.