Hello All,
I recently saw a 42yo female who began experiencing “dystonic attacks”
shortly after her mother died 3 years ago. Initial symptoms were curling of
the toes bilaterally, which subsided after a few months. Symptoms returned
however and progressed, patient said she experiences attacks most days
lasting 30 minutes to 2 hours. During the attack the patient contracts her
muscles and feels “stuck”, she can move only with great difficulty. Patient
was referred to me for a left AFO, her left foot and ankle is in an
equinovarus position I was unable to correct to neutral. Fingers 3-4-5 of
her left hand are also contracted, can be straightened with great
difficulty. Patient has seen neurologists locally and at OHSU in Portland,
OR, she said that she takes numerous medications which have not helped. She
told me that her Dr.’s have discussed Botox for her hand but not lower
extremity, she said no one has been able to give her a diagnosis. Has
anyone treated a patient with similiar symptoms? Thanks in advance for
your help.
Darrel Templeton CO
Summit O&P
