Neck movement speed in cervical dystonia

Clinical scales of patients with cervical dystonia do not rate neck movement velocity. We prospectively measured range of neck movements and movement velocities in 35 consecutive patients with cervical dystonia (CD) and 29 normal controls. Reduction of peak velocities in patients with CD was the most robust abnormality and was correlated to TWSTRS. Coupled movements out of attempted movement plane were increased in the patient group. Movement range was moderately though significantly reduced. We conclude that slowing of voluntary neck movements is a frequent and hitherto unrecognized feature in CD.