Sharing knowledge, building confidence and improving physiotherapy for people living with dystonia
Dystonia Europe was delighted to return to Queen Square Hospital in London for the second Dystonia Physio Workshop, bringing together 20 physiotherapists from the UK, Germany, Ireland and Spain.
The day began with Dr Anna Sadnicka, neurologist at Queen Square, who gave an engaging introduction to “What is dystonia?” covering the evolution of our understanding of dystonia, current classification, genetics and dystonia as a network disorder, as well as clinical features and treatment options.
Johanna Blom, specialist physiotherapist from Skåne University Hospital in Malmö, Sweden, then led the practical sessions focusing on cervical dystonia. Participants explored different dystonia patterns, posture, movement, tremor and pain, and the importance of carefully analysing each individual patient. As there is no “one size fits all” approach, physiotherapy needs to be tailored to the person, their dystonia and their everyday life.
Johanna Blom and Neurologist Anna Sadnicka
A patient case brought this learning to life. The patient shared how dystonia affected not only movement and pain, but also confidence, work and social life. Physiotherapy had helped her develop practical strategies, exercises and sensory tricks — and, importantly, regain confidence and a sense of control.
The afternoon focused on practical treatment strategies, including motor and postural control, relaxation, mobility, stretching, reducing tension and tremor, and developing an individual home exercise programme. Participants also learned about motion guidance laser, demonstrated by physiotherapists Hannah Louissant, Kate Sampson and Kate Holt.
Physiotehrapy training
The workshop highlighted the importance of collaboration between neurologists, physiotherapists and the wider multidisciplinary team, as well as sharing expertise across borders. The growing Dystonia Physio Platform, with around 900 physiotherapists from 35 countries, is an excellent example of this international collaboration.
A big thank you to Dr Anna Sadnicka, Johanna Blom, Hannah Louissant, Kate Sampson and Kate Holt, the Queen Square team and, of course, all the participating physiotherapists for a day filled with learning, practical experience and inspiring discussions.
Monika Benson, Executive Director Dystonia Europe
Participants physio training in London
