Focal dystonia

Our Condition-Oriented Rehabilitation & Education (C.O.R.E) Package is designed to support people with focal idiopathic dystonia, specifically cervical dystonia or focal hand dystonia. 

Enable

• A comprehensive assessment delivered by clinician(s) within cann’s national network experienced in focal idiopathic dystonia
  • This session (up to 1.5 hours) explores how dystonia is affecting your movement, posture, muscle control, fatigue, and daily function.
• A personalised plan to support better movement, function, and self-management

Uplift

• Up to two follow-up sessions, tailored to your goals and needs
• Access to relevant research-informed, easy-to-understand resources that can support you in daily life and explain available options

Unite

• Where appropriate, your clinician may help connect you with other services — such as community-based programmes, public health services, or additional allied health providers
• If available, we may also link you with local or national support networks or groups 

Exceed

• Telehealth options are available to ensure support is accessible no matter where you live
• A follow-up review may be offered annually depending on clinical need, availability of services, and funding — your clinician will discuss this with you if appropriate.

You may be eligible if you have received a confirmed diagnosis of focal idiopathic dystonia (cervical or focal hand dystonia) from a neurologist.

Once you're ready to get started, the process is simple:

1. Complete the online registration form.
   You’ll be asked for basic details about your diagnosis, any previous assessments, and your contact information. You’ll also review and agree to our patient terms and conditions and patient consents, which explain how we use your information and what to expect from the service. You can complete the form yourself, or a trusted nominee can do it on your behalf if needed.
2. You'll receive an automated confirmation email, along with a PDF copy of your signed consent.
3. You will receive a welcome email with pre-assessment form(s) to be completed and returned to hello@cann.org.nz
4. Within 5–10 working days, your assigned clinician will then contact you directly to confirm your eligibility and book your first appointment.
5. We aim to offer support as promptly as possible, but access may depend on available funding and clinical capacity. 

We rely on the generosity of grant funders and donors like you — and we appreciate your understanding if there are any delays in accessing our services.