Parkinson’s disease and dystonia are both movement disorders that affect the nervous system, and while they may seem similar on the surface, they are quite different in their causes, onset, and treatment approaches. In fact, dystonia can sometimes appear as a symptom of Parkinson’s, making it even more important to understand how the two overlap and differ.
To help us break it down, we spoke to Dr Nikhil Sharad Jadhav, Consultant Neurologist, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, who explains how each condition presents and the treatment paths that can offer relief.
Also Read: Ozzy Osbourne Dies at 76 After Battle with Parkinson’s Disease - Report
What Is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that mostly affects how a person moves. It happens when certain nerve cells in the brain stop producing enough dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement. Over time, this leads to symptoms like trembling hands, slow movements, stiffness, and trouble with balance.
Unfortunately, the prevalence of Parkinson's disease has doubled in the past 25 years, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In 2019, worldwide estimates showed over 80.5 lakh individuals with Parkinson's. Current estimates suggest that, in 2019, Parkinson's resulted in 50.8 lakh Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), an increase of 81% since 2000, and caused 3.29 lakh deaths, an increase of over 100% since 2000.
Most people are diagnosed after the age of 60, but it can sometimes start earlier. While there’s no cure yet, many people with Parkinson’s continue to live full, active lives with the right treatment and support.
What Is Dystonia?
Dystonia, on the other hand, isn’t a single disease; it’s a movement issue that shows up as involuntary muscle contractions. These cause the body to twist or turn in unusual ways or hold awkward postures. It can affect just one part of the body, like the neck or eyelids, or several areas at once.
Unlike Parkinson’s, dystonia often begins at a younger age and may show up on its own or as part of another condition, including Parkinson’s itself. In fact, many people with Parkinson’s may experience dystonia during different stages of the disease.
Parkinson's Disease Vs. Dystonia: How To Tell The Difference
At first glance, these two conditions can look similar, and in some cases, they overlap.
According to Dr Jadhav, Parkinson’s disease is a well-defined set of symptoms caused by a common underlying brain condition, whereas dystonia is more of a clinical sign, a movement issue that can appear in various neurological disorders.
Dystonia can occur in both early and late stages of Parkinson's disease, so there is frequent overlap in symptoms. But while it may be difficult to separate the two conditions apart, Parkinson’s is a disease with a clear underlying cause involving dopamine loss, whereas dystonia is more of a symptom and can show up in a range of neurological disorders.
There are multiple causes for both conditions, but genetic predisposition plays an important role in both. Both these conditions can occur in all age groups; however, Parkinson's disease is more common in the elderly, while neurological conditions causing dystonia usually begin at a younger age.
A neurologist usually makes the diagnosis based on clinical signs and history and may recommend different treatment approaches depending on the case.
Also Read: Normal Muscle Spasms Can Be Dystonia: Here Are Some Differences To Know
Treatments: Parkinson’s Vs. Dystonia
Both conditions can be managed, but the way they’re treated is quite different.
Dr Jadhav explains that Parkinson’s disease usually responds quite well to medication. With the right dosage and proper education for both patients and their families, many people can lead a near-normal life for years. Some forms of dystonia also respond to treatment, but it often takes several months before noticeable improvement sets in, making patience and consistency key.
Dystonia treatment depends on what’s causing it. Some types respond to oral medications, while others are treated with botox injections to relax the muscles. It can take a few months to see results, and sometimes a combination of treatments is needed.
Conclusion
While Parkinson’s and dystonia both affect movement, they’re quite different in how they show up, who they affect, and how they’re treated. Understanding these differences helps in getting the right diagnosis and the right care. Whether it’s Parkinson’s, dystonia, or both, early support and the right treatment can make a world of difference in how someone lives with their condition.