Dr. Sheli underscores that the disease is rare, affecting only one person out of a million, with a higher prevalence among women. He explains that the syndrome progresses gradually, leading to movement limitations and severe pain, as seen in the video. The singer is shown experiencing a painful muscle stiffness attack, causing all muscles to contract simultaneously. The disease’s progression is documented, showing that it is currently uncontrollable.
In the video, Dion receives intranasal diazepam, the recognized treatment for her condition. Dr. Sheli explains that this spray contains benzodiazepines, which enhance the effect of a neurotransmitter called GABA to calm and ease stiffness and contractions. In rare cases, the syndrome can be secondary to an autoimmune disease, leading patients to receive immunological treatments to boost the immune system.
Due to her illness, Dion had to cancel her last European tour. In a recent interview with NBC, she disclosed, “I experienced such strong muscle contractions that I actually broke ribs.”