Torticollis
Torticollis is a severe tightness of the muscles on one side of the neck. The tight muscles can make the head turn or lean to one side. And the head may also be pulled forward or backward. It is also called wryneck. There are two types, congenital (at birth) and spasmodic.
Congenital torticollis occurs at or shortly after birth. The neck muscle (sternocleidomastoid muscle) is shortened, bringing the infant's head slightly down and to one side. Experts don't know exactly what causes the shortened neck muscle.
Some cases of congenital torticollis are caused by a bone abnormality in the neck portion of the spine (cervical spine).
Spasmodic torticollis (cervical dystonia) occurs when the neck muscle is tight but not short. Dystonia means that there are involuntary movements and prolonged muscle contraction. It may be inherited or it can happen as a side effect of a medicine. Sometimes it's a symptom of another problem.
In children, treatment is needed to prevent the face from growing unevenly. The caregiver is taught how and how often to stretch the child's neck to help relieve torticollis. For severe cases, surgery may be needed.
In adults, treatment includes using heat and massage to help relieve head and neck pain. Stretching exercises and neck braces may help with muscle spasms. Medicines and injections are also used.
How can you care for yourself when you have torticollis?
- Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
- If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
- Store your prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
- Do stretches and exercises that your doctor or physical therapist suggests. These can help with muscle tightness.
- Try heat or ice, whichever feels better. Apply it for 10 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Put a thin cloth between the heat or ice and your skin. You might also try switching between heat and ice.
- If your doctor recommends a cervical collar, wear it exactly as directed.
Torticollis: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have new or worse numbness in your arms, buttocks, or legs.
- You have new or worse weakness in your arms or legs.
- Your neck pain gets worse.
- You lose bladder or bowel control.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You do not get better as expected.
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