What Is Spasmodic Torticollis
Spasmodic torticollis is an extremely painful chronic neurological movement disorder causing the neck to involuntarily turn to the left, right, upwards, and/or downwards. The condition is also referred to as “cervical dystonia”. Both agonist and antagonist muscles contract simultaneously during dystonic movement. Spasmodic torticollis (cervical dystonia) is a disorder where the muscles of the neck contract uncontrollably, making the head turn into various postures. It can be caused by a neurologic disease or as the result of an accident. The spasms tend to worsen when a person stands or walks, making simple tasks difficult. Consult a doctor for medical advice.
Symptoms
- An inability to move your head normally
- Having one shoulder higher than the other
- Headache
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Swollen neck muscles
- Tilting of your chin to one side
Treatment
- Apply a heat pad or ice pack, which may relieve neck stiffness and pain
- Get advice on suitable pain relief medicines
- Keep active and move your neck as normally as possible
- Oral Orthotics
- Try gently moving your neck in circles and moving it backwards, forwards and to either side to loosen the muscles and keep your neck supple
