Neuro Navigators: A Medbridge Podcast Neuro Navigators Episode 19: Focal Dystonia: Can We Really Retrain the Brain?
Dr. Nancy Byl, a pioneer in neuroplasticity and expert in focal dystonia, joins host J.J. Mowder-Tinney for a dynamic conversation on how OTs and PTs can rethink assessment and intervention for this underrecognized movement disorder. J.J. brings curiosity and clinical insight as they explore the sensory origins of dystonia, surprising traits shared by many patients, and why behavioral retraining may hold more promise than you think. Along the way, Dr. Byl shares case examples, brain mapping data, and creative treatment strategies grounded in decades of experience. Tune in to discover how targeted sensory retraining—and a little outside-the-box thinking—may help retrain the brain.
Learning Objectives
- Analyze the evidence around the definition, diagnosis, and prevalence of focal dystonia (FD)
- Apply evidence-based, practical strategies to address the treatment of FD, grounded in principles of neuroplasticity and behavioral interventions, and to support engagement in meaningful occupations
- Solve patient case scenarios involving FD while integrating current research, clinical reasoning, and potential directions for future investigation
Timestamps
- (00:00:00) Welcome
- (00:01:05) Introduction to guest and focal dystonia research
- (00:06:56) Understanding focal dystonia in context
- (00:11:16) The impact of focal dystonia on lives
- (00:16:01) Personality traits and focal dystonia
- (00:18:35) Neuroscience insights into dystonia
- (00:24:39) Behavioral retraining and dystonia
- (00:28:18) Patient characteristics and outcomes
- (00:33:49) Assessment techniques for dystonia
- (00:46:08) Innovative treatment approaches
- (00:47:17) The role of behavioral training in recovery
- (00:49:46) Real-life retraining success stories and insights
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