Singer Celine Dion announced in an Instagram video Thursday that she is canceling some performances because she has been diagnosed with the condition.
Celine Dion’s diagnosis with the stiff-person syndrome has brought public attention to the rare neurological disorder, which affects roughly one or two out of every million people.
Dion announced Thursday that she had postponed dates for her European tour next year due to the condition.
Stiff-person syndrome (SPS) is a rare and debilitating neurological disorder that affects the muscles and nervous system, causing them to become stiff and difficult to control.
This condition is marked by stiffness and spasms in the trunk and limbs, and can also cause issues with overall body balance and walking.
What do people with Stiff-person syndrome (SPS) experience?
People with SPS may experience a range of symptoms, including muscle stiffness, spasms, and tremors, as well as difficulty standing up, walking, and maintaining good posture.
These symptoms can sometimes be severe and can interfere with daily activities, making it difficult for people with SPS to carry out even simple tasks.
SPS is thought to be caused by an autoimmune response in which the body’s immune system attacks the nerves that control the muscles. This can cause the muscles to become stiff and difficult to control, leading to the symptoms of SPS.
In some cases, SPS may be started by infections or other illnesses, but in numerous cases, the cause is unknown.
Who is affected by stiff person syndrome?
The condition affects about one a million people, and most general neurologists will see only one or two cases in their lifetimes of practice.
The first case of stiff person syndrome was reported in the 1950s, and the disease was historically referred to as “stiff man syndrome.”
Since then, it has been found to affect twice as many women as men, and the name was changed to stiff person syndrome to avoid confusion.
What does the treatment of Stiff-person syndrome (SPS) look like?
Treatment for SPS often requires a combination of approaches that includes medications and physical therapy.
Medications such as muscle relaxants and anticonvulsants can help to reduce muscle stiffness and spasms, while physical therapy can help to improve strength and flexibility. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to improve symptoms.
Living with SPS can be challenging, but with the right treatment and support, people with this condition can lead full and productive lives.
It is important for people with SPS to work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their needs and to monitor their symptoms closely.
One of the most challenging aspects of living with stiff-person syndrome (SPS) is the unpredictable nature of the condition.
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can come and go without warning. This can make it hard for people with SPS to plan their daily activities and can lead to feelings of uncertainty and anxiety.
In addition to the physical symptoms of SPS, many people with this condition also experience emotional challenges.
The constant muscle stiffness and spasms can be painful and exhausting, and the loss of control over one’s body can be frustrating and frightening. These emotional challenges can take a toll on a person’s mental health and can lead to feelings of depression and isolation.
Despite these challenges, many people with SPS find ways to live fulfilling and active lives. Some people with SPS may need to make accommodations in their daily routines, such as using assistive devices to help with mobility or avoiding triggers that can exacerbate their symptoms.
But with the right support and treatment, people with SPS can continue to do the things they love and stay engaged with the world around them.
If you or someone you know has SPS, it is important to seek support from healthcare providers and other individuals who understand the challenges of living with this condition. Together, you can develop a treatment plan that helps to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. With the right support, people with SPS can lead full and rewarding lives.
