Torticollis

Definition

Definition of Torticollis
This is a condition also referred to as cervical dystonia and also known as spasmodic torticollis or just torticollis. This is a condition which is painful and is caused by the neck muscles involuntarily contract, causing the head to twist one side to the other. It can also cause the head to uncontrollably tilt backward and forwards.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Torticollis
The contractions of the muscle involved in torticollis will cause the head to twist in an assortment of directions, which include:

1. Chin toward shoulder
2. Chin straight up
3. Ear toward shoulder
4. Chin straight down

The most frequent sort of twisting linked with torticollis is the chin being pulled towards the shoulder. Some individuals experience a mixture of head postures which are atypical. Jerking motion of the head can also occur.

Causes

Causes of Torticollis
Scientists believe that the symptoms of signs or torticollis can result from a problem in the brain’s ability to manage chemical messages which allow the cells of the brain to communicate with each other.

In many cases of this disorder, physicians do not know why some individuals develop the disorder and others do not. In some cases, it appears to be linked to:

1. Shoulder, neck or head injuries
2. Strokes
3. Brain or spinal cord tumors
4. Drugs such as antipsychotic, anti-nausea as well as antidepressant agents
5. Toxins, such as carbon monoxide and heavy metals

Tests

Tests of Torticollis
Various tests or procedures may be done to rule out possible causes of head and neck pain. A physical examination will show a visible shortening of the neck muscles and the head will tilt toward the affected side while the chin points to the opposite side. In more severe cases, the entire head pulls and turns to one side.

Prognosis

Prognosis of Torticollis
The condition may be easier to correct in infants and children. If the condition becomes chronic, numbness and tingling may develop as nerve roots become compressed in the neck.

The muscle itself may become large (hypertrophic) due to constant stimulation and exercise.

Botulinum toxin injections often provide substantial relief.

Treatment

Treatment of Torticollis
The treatment for torticollis is aimed at relaxation of the contracted muscles of the neck which are involved. These treatments can include drugs, physical devices, botulin toxin, as well as surgery. In many individuals, torticollis will resolve by itself in several days to a few weeks. In a few individuals, continuing problems with the neck may continue for months even years. If these neck muscle spasms persist the doctor may refer the individual to a neurologist or surgeon.

Prevention

Prevention of Torticollis
While there is no known prevention, early treatment may prevent a worsening of the condition.