Torticollis, Spasmodic (Neck Muscle Spasm)
Description
Produces distortion of the neck secondary to spasm of the neck muscles. Also called cervical dystonia. The head is involuntarily turned to one side during an attack. The disorder can occur from birth to adulthood but is most common in women in their 20-30s. some cases resolve on their own but others need specific therapy. The cause can be inherited (spasmodic torticollis), acquired after an injury, or unknown (idiopathic torticollis).
Symptoms
Limited range of motion, headache, head tremor, neck pain, shoulder is higher on one side of the body, stiffness of neck muscles.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to rule out other causes of the syndrome may be done.
- MRI
Treatment
Therapy depends on the severity of the disease and may include: physical therapy, behavior modification, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), narcotic medications, anxiolytics (diazepam/Valium, lorazepam/Ativan), anti-Parkinson medications, anti-seizure medications, anti-botulism toxin (Botox) injections, and rarely surgery.
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