Torticollis(Spasmodic Torticollis; Cervical Dystonia)
by
Diane Savitsky, MS DefinitionTorticollis is a problem where the head turns and tilts to one side and the chin points to the other side. One shoulder may lift. It may be all the time or may come and go. Causes TOPThe causes aren’t clear. It may be from:
Risk Factors TOPThis problem is more common in females, kids under 10, and adults who are 30-60 years old. You are at risk if someone in your family has this condition. Symptoms TOP
Symptoms are:
Symptoms range from mild to severe. It often worsens slowly for 1-5 years. Then it slows and stays the same. It may last for life. It can result in problems moving and affect your posture. Diagnosis TOPYou will be asked about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. Pictures may be needed. This can be done with: Treatment TOPTreatment depends on whether the problem has been since birth (congenital) or started later (acquired). Physical therapy, oral medicine, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, and surgery may be done. Other methods are: Congenital Torticollis
Acquired Torticollis
Prevention TOPIt can’t be prevented. Early medical care may keep things from getting worse. RESOURCES:Dystonia Medical Research Foundation http://www.dystonia-foundation.org National Spasmodic Torticollis Association http://www.torticollis.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:The College of Family Physicians of Canada http://www.cfpc.ca Health Canada https://www.canada.ca References:Cervical dystonia. Dystonia Medical Research Foundation website. Available at:
https://www.dystonia-foundation.org/what-is-dystonia/forms-of-dystonia/focal-dystonias/cervical-dystonia. Accessed June 4, 2018.
Cervical dystonia. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T132176/Cervical-dystonia
. Updated April 13, 2017. Accessed June 4, 2018.
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2008;109:405-409. Last reviewed May 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Warren A. Bodine, DO, CAQSM Last Updated: 6/16/2015 | |
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