Objective: The objective of this study was to survey a group of self-identified runners to determine the prevalence of symptoms suspected to be lower extremity task specific dystonia.

Background: Focal task specific dystonia (FTSD) has been extensively described in the areas of writing and professional musicians. FTSD of the lower limb is thought to be much less common than upper extremity FTSD. One population that performs large amounts of repetitive lower extremity movements and has not previously been extensively evaluated for FTSD is runners. We proposed that lower extremity FTSD is underdiagnosed in runners.

Methods: We administered an online RedCap survey to subjects who self-identified as runners. This survey collected background about running experience, cross training, gear, past diagnosed running related injuries and possible symptoms of lower extremity FTSD.

Results: 248 runners completed the survey and 34 indicated lower extremity FTSD symptoms that developed only after running regularly. Heel strike as opposed to mid foot strike was more common in runners reporting dystonia symptoms. Nike brand shoes were more common in asymptomatic runners. 6 runners had limited activity due to symptoms.

Conclusions: Based on these results, symptoms of lower extremity FTSD are more common in runners than previously thought. It is possible that mild distal dystonia symptoms, affecting toes and feet, are not disruptive enough to result in athletes seeking medical attention.

References: Katz M, Byl NN, San Luciano M, Ostrem JL. Focal task-specific lower extremity dystonia associated with intense repetitive exercise: a case series. Parkinsonism Relat Disord. 2013;19(11):1033-1038. doi:10.1016/j.parkreldis.2013.07.013. Wu LJC, Jankovic J. Runner’s dystonia. J Neurol Sci. 2006;251(1-2):73-76. doi:10.1016/j.jns.2006.09.003.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/prevalence-of-focal-task-specific-lower-extremity-dystonia-symptoms-in-runners/