Resumen

CHANA, Pedro  y  CANALES, Glenda. Occupational dystonias. Rev. chil. neuro-psiquiatr. [online]. 2003, vol.41, n.1, pp.19-24. ISSN 0717-9227.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4067/S0717-92272003000100003.

Dystonia is defined as prolonged co-contraction of agonist and antagonist muscles that can cause twisting, involuntary movements, and/or abnormal postures. Occupational dystonias are a special group of pathologies resulting from an action repeatedly performed by an individual during his/her professional activity, including guitar, violin, and trumpet players. Pathophysilogically, disturbances are described in the peripheral and central nervous system. Studies with primates have shown that repetitive movements through sensory stimulation can cause central anomalies in the somatosensorial cortex, with growth in the receptive areas stimulated and deformation of the separations between these areas. Sensory retraining using splints and exercise programs are treatment option. We review the evidence that supports the theory that occupational distonies caused by repetitive stimulation bring on alterations in the sensory cortex, causing motor problems that can be treated through sensorial retraining therapy

Palabras clave : occupational dystonia; overuse syndrome; focal hand dystonia; writer´s cramp; sensitives disorders.