A specialised physiotherapy course focusing on dystonia recently brought twenty physiotherapists to the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery (Queen Square) in London.
Hosted by physiotherapist Hanna Louissant and organised by Dystonia Europe, the workshop aimed to strengthen knowledge of physiotherapy as part of dystonia treatment.
Dr Anna Sadnicka and Physiotherapist Johanna Blom
Opening the course, Monika Benson emphasised the long-term goal of improving treatment outcomes and quality of life for people living with dystonia.
The course is part of an initiative funded through donations from the former patient organisation ADDER (Action for Dystonia, Diagnosis, Education and Research), which supported the development of physiotherapy workshops across the UK.
Neurologist Anna Sadnicka provided an overview of dystonia, highlighting the importance of recognising conditions such as Wilson’s disease and Dopa-responsive dystonia, which can require different treatment approaches.
Much of the workshop focused on cervical dystonia, the most common focal dystonia affecting the neck. Participants learned how symptoms can worsen during voluntary movements, stress or emotional situations.
Physiotherapist Johanna Blom led practical sessions on assessment and physiotherapy strategies. With the help of a demonstration patient, participants observed how physiotherapists analyse movement patterns and tailor exercises to individual patients.
Evidence presented during the course showed that physiotherapy can enhance the effects of botulinum toxin injections and support better long-term outcomes.
Participants ended the day with practical exercise techniques, new clinical tools and a greater understanding of how physiotherapy can play a key role in dystonia management.
Feedback from attendees was highly positive, with many expressing interest in attending future courses.
At the end of the day, Dystonia Europe President Gill Ainsley thanked both trainer and participants for taking part and contributing to a successful day.
She also pointed out that we will try to organise another step one course in London which will be followed by a two-day course in spring 2027.
