Stiff Person Syndrome synonyms

Stiff Person Syndrome Synonyms

Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) is a rare neurological disorder characterized by muscle stiffness and spasms. It primarily affects the muscles of the trunk and limbs, causing a person to experience difficulty with movement and posture. While Stiff Person Syndrome is the commonly used term to describe this condition, there are a few other synonyms that are sometimes used interchangeably:

• Moersch-Woltman Syndrome: This term is derived from the names of the two neurologists who first described the disorder in the 1950s, Dr. Frederick Moersch and Dr. Henry Woltman. It is often used to refer to the classic form of Stiff Person Syndrome.


• Stiff-Man Syndrome: This older term was used before the condition was recognized to affect both men and women. It is still occasionally used, but Stiff Person Syndrome is now considered a more inclusive and accurate term.


• Stiff Body Syndrome: This term is sometimes used to describe the generalized stiffness and rigidity experienced by individuals with Stiff Person Syndrome.


• Stiff-Limb Syndrome: This term is used when the stiffness and spasms are primarily localized to the limbs.

It is important to note that while these terms are used synonymously with Stiff Person Syndrome, they all refer to the same underlying condition characterized by muscle stiffness and spasms. The choice of terminology may vary depending on the medical professional or research literature.