Typically, we are able to move our neck forward and backward, right and left side bend, and right and left rotation to look over your shoulder by using different musculature in the neck. The contraction and relaxation of these muscles produces the movement. When one of these muscles remains contracted after a movement instead of relaxing it is considered in spasm and some patients describe it as a deep cramp or ache. Torticollis is when this painful spasm occurs to some of the neck muscles that help us move our neck. There are many causes of torticollis, but the four main causes include:
1. Sleeping in a bad position
2. Poor posture
3. Acute trauma
4. Neck Muscle injury at birth
Signs and symptoms of torticollis include an abnormal spasm and appearance of a neck muscle, the in ability to turn your head to one side, and tenderness of the neck muscles and muscles between the neck and shoulder. In more severe cases people may appear to have their head slightly turned away from the side of discomfort as demonstrated in the image below. Treatment for torticollis is targeted on relaxation of the contracted neck musculature causing discomfort. This may be done with stretching, heat, ultrasound, deep tissue massage, a soft neck collar, or an ice massage. Your Joint ventures Physical Therapist can perform all o fthese treatments to assist you in the recovery from torticollis. Most cases of torticollis begin to resolve within 2 weeks, but if conservative methods are unsuccessful, you should contact your physician.
