Definition of "dystonia" [dystonia]

• Abnormal tonicity of muscle, characterized by prolonged, repetitive muscle contractions that may cause twisting or jerking movements of the body or a body part. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "He was struck by a syndrome called dystonia, in which the brain loses the ability to control muscles, resulting in them spasming."
• "The Food and Drug Administration has approved deep-brain stimulation to treat Parkinson's and a movement disorder known as dystonia, and it is used to treat chronic pain and severe depression."
• " It reported that a Washington Redskins cheerleader, Desiree Jennings, was diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder called dystonia alleged to be caused by a severe reaction to the seasonal flu shot."