Torticollis

A condition of the neck, where the head is twisted to one side by contraction of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.


Stiff, spasmodic neck typically producing lateral flexion of the muscles of the, cervical spine.


A muscle spasm in the neck that produces a contraction of several muscles pulling the head to one side in an unnatural position. Also called wryneck, torticollis causes pain and stiffness in the neck. The condition may be due to a physical injury of the neck muscles, to a twisted position of the neck during sleep, or to exposure from extreme cold (such as an air conditioner). Certain tranquilizers may cause torticollis. In newborn infants, it is sometimes caused by neck muscle damage following a difficult birth. In children, torticollis can be caused by infected, swollen glands in the neck. The condition is diagnosed by physical examination. In adults and older children, physical therapy, massage, application of heat, a supportive collar, and the use of painkilling medication may help control discomfort and restore function. This condition usually improves in 7 to 10 days without complications.


An irresistible turning movement of the head that becomes more persistent, so that eventually the head is held continually to one side. The spasm of the muscles is often painful and the patient is sensitive about his appearance. It may be caused by a birth injury to the sternomastoid muscle. Relief may be obtained by cutting the motor nerve roots of the spinal nerves in the neck region.


This is shortness of the sternomastoid muscle on one side, resulting in asymetry and limitation of movement of the neck.


Stiff neck associated with muscle spasm, classically causing lateral flexion contracture of the cervical spine musculature. It may be congenital or acquired. The muscles affected are principally those supplied by the spinal accessory nerve.


Cervical twisting results in the tilting and abnormal fixation of the head, commonly known as wry neck. This condition is typically accompanied by neck pain and stiffness. The primary cause is often a minor neck injury that triggers irritation in cervical nerves, leading to muscle spasms. Other contributing factors encompass sleeping in an uncomfortable position, a neck-muscle injury during birth, and instances such as burns or injuries that result in substantial scarring.


Muscle-induced torticollis can be managed through various approaches, including the application of an orthopedic collar, heat therapy, ultrasound treatment, physiotherapy, or injections of the botulinum toxin. In cases where torticollis stems from birth-related injuries, gentle muscle stretching is performed multiple times daily, and in certain instances, a surgical procedure might be necessary.


A tightening of the neck muscles that leads to the head being held in an unusual position, also known as torticollis.


 

 


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