New Zealand Dystonia Patient Network Inc.

The New Zealand Dystonia Patient Network was established in 1992.  We are a grass-roots organisation and most of our leaders have dystonia themselves. The NZDPN is a voluntary, non-profit, self-help organization whose aim is to link individuals affected by all forms of Dystonia. This movement disorders characterized by inappropriate and involuntary muscle movements; it is often misdiagnosed.  The disabling, repetitive and sustained muscle spasms and twisting typical of dystonia are thought to be due to malfunction of a particular part of the brain, the basal ganglia. Faulty signals from the brain cause muscles to spasm and pull on the body incorrectly. This forces the body into twisting, repetitive movements or abnormal postures. Sometimes the symptoms are accompanied by dystonic tremor. Unfortunately there is not yet a cure.

Mission Statement: Our 3-fold mission is:

• To support dystonia patients with information, advice and networking opportunities
• To increase awareness about dystonia – both among the medical community and the public
• to encourage and facilitate research, with the aim of seeking better treatments, prevention, a cure