Session Information
Date: Thursday, June 23, 2016
Session Title: Dystonia
Session Time: 12:00pm-1:30pm
Location: Exhibit Hall located in Hall B, Level 2
Objective: To propose standardized filming and patient procedures to optimize recordings for assessment of writer’s cramp.
Background: The evaluation of writer’s cramp and effectiveness of various therapies is hampered by the lack of a widely-accepted, validated rating scale. While rating is often done via real-time observation and interaction with patients, video ratings can provide consistency in the examination and aid in determination of intra- and inter-rater reliability. Video rating requires standardizing and optimizing the patient and video procedures.
Methods: We systematically reviewed video recordings of writer’s cramp patients obtained to document the dystonia.
Results: Inconsistencies in filming technique and patient procedures included: a limited field of camera view not showing proximal muscles, wrist or all fingers, a writing task too brief to elicit dystonic posturing, not showing the dominant hand during writing with non-dominant hand intended to reveal mirror movements, allowing the patient to use compensatory positions, and having the patient write on an unsupported surface.
Conclusions: To remedy these conditions, we have developed a standardized filming approach and patient procedures to optimize recordings and assessment of writer’s cramp. This may allow for a more effective and accurate assessment of the degree and characteristics of dystonia in this patient population.
To cite this abstract in AMA style:
J.E. Park, B. Karp. Video assessment of writer’s cramp [abstract]. Mov Disord. 2016; 31 (suppl 2). https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/video-assessment-of-writers-cramp/. Accessed May 15, 2025.« Back to 2016 International Congress
MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/video-assessment-of-writers-cramp/