Celine Dion is one of the most celebrated vocalists in the world.
She announced in 2022 that she had been diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS), a rare neurological disorder.
The condition forced her to postpone and cancel several performances, including parts of her own Courage World Tour.
In an emotional message to her fans, she shared: “All I know is to sing… that’s what I’ve done all my life, and that’s what I love to do most.” She also explained that the condition has affected her ability to walk and sing, making live performances extremely challenging.
What is Stiff Person Syndrome?
Stiff Person Syndrome is a rare autoimmune neurological disorder that affects the central nervous system.
It leads to progressive muscle stiffness and painful spasms, often caused by noise, touch or emotional stress. The exact cause is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to involve an abnormal immune response that affects the body’s nerve signaling.
Symptoms of Stiff Person Syndrome:
Common symptoms include muscle stiffness, especially in the trunk and limbs, severe muscle spasms, movement problems and impaired balance.
In some cases, individuals may also experience increased sensitivity to stimuli, anxiety, and an increased risk of falling due to stiffness.
Treatment for Stiff Person Syndrome:
There is no cure for SPS, but treatment focuses on symptom management, and medications such as muscle relaxants, anti-anxiety medications, and immunotherapy can help reduce both stiffness and spasms.
Physiotherapy is also important to maintain mobility and improve quality of life.
The My heart will continue singer has also opened up about how she is dealing with Stiff Person Syndrome, saying, “For now, I have to live with it… Five days a week, I undergo athletic, physical and vocal therapy. I work on my toes, my knees, my calves, my fingers, my singing, my voice.”
Celine Dion’s openness about her diagnosis has drawn worldwide attention to Stiff Person Syndrome, a relatively rare condition. Her journey highlights both the challenges of living with a disorder and the importance of supportive care.
