Congenital Myotonia

Myotonia congenita is a hereditary disorder of the muscles in which they are slow to relax after contracting, so movement can feel stiff when starting it.

Common symptoms: Temporary muscle stiffness is usually noticed at the start of a movement, which tends to improve as it is repeated, along with some difficulty letting go of what is held in the hand.

Common causes: It has a genetic origin and usually appears from childhood, unrelated to habits or to the parents' effort.

Which specialist treats it? In children, the evaluation is the responsibility of the pediatric neurologist, often in coordination with the pediatrician who provides general follow-up. If you notice striking muscle stiffness or difficulty relaxing the muscles, it is advisable to consult a professional.