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Stiff Person Syndrome

What is Stiff Person Syndrome?

Stiff person syndrome is a rare autoimmune neurological disorder that causes muscle stiffness and painful muscle spasms.

What Causes Stiff Person Syndrome?

Stiff Person Syndrome develops when the body's immune system begins to attack healthy tissues. More women than men have this condition.

What Are the Symptoms of Stiff Person Syndrome?

Symptoms vary, but may include:

  • Painful muscle spasms
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Difficulty walking
  • Unsteadiness
  • Chronic pain
  • Exaggerated curve in the lower back
  • Double vision
  • Issues with speech

Muscle spasms can be triggered by sudden movements, stress, exercises, touch, or cold temperatures.

UR Medicine's Treatments for Stiff Person Syndrome

To diagnose Stiff Person Syndrome, your healthcare provider may order blood tests, imaging studies, or an electromyography (EMG) to measure the body’s nerve and muscle function.

Currently, there is no cure for Stiff Person Syndrome. However, medications, physical therapy, and other treatments can help to reduce symptoms. Treatment plans will be individualized, and some therapies may work well for some and not others.

The Neuromuscular Disease Center at UR Medicine provides diagnosis and treatment for both adults and children. 

Our neuromuscular laboratories include the University of Rochester Neurology EMG laboratory , which uses state-of-the art ultrasound, and the Neuromuscular Pathology laboratory offering muscle, nerve, and skin biopsy (small fiber neuropathy) diagnostic services.

What Sets Us Apart?

Our team of experts at the Neuromuscular Disease Center specialize in what's needed to care for all forms of childhood and adult childhood neuromuscular disease. We coordinate care tailored to the needs of patients and families, in partnership with the Muscular Dystrophy Association

Movement Disorder experts at UR Medicine offer additional treatment approaches including Deep Brain Stimulation, Botulinum toxin therapy, continuous levodopa infusion therapy, and other cutting-edge options. We also offer clinical services via telemedicine.

We have a rich history of cutting-edge research, where we have made advancements in our understanding of the causes of inflammatory allergic and autoimmune disorders. Our Clinical Immunology Research Center has numerous active studies where participants can receive the newest treatments for their condition. Because of these efforts, we have been designated as a Center of Excellence by the World Allergy Organization and are a member of the NIH Accelerated Medicines Partnership.

Locations

We serve you in the Rochester metropolitan area and surrounding region.

1 location

Movement Disorders Clinic - Brighton
Part of Strong Memorial Hospital

Clinton Crossings, Building D
4901 Lac De Ville Boulevard, Suite 120
Rochester, NY 14618

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