Dystonia is characterized by sustained involuntary muscle contraction. The condition frequently affects either children or adults in the fourth and fifth decades of life.

Torticollis, a form of focal dystonia, is characterized by uncontrolled contraction of muscles involved in head turning and results in the inability to straighten the neck or turn the head to the opposite side. Multiple medical regimens are used to control the symptoms of dystonia, including the direct injection of botulinum toxin into affected muscles. These are, however, not always effective in controlling the symptoms.

Deep brain stimulation has been approved for use in dystonia under a humanitarian devise exemption. Baclofen pump implants or selective dorsal rhizotomies may be surgical options in child and adults with spastic paresis.