Spasmodic torticollis (cervical dystonia) is a type of dystonia where there is spasmodic turning of the head and neck to one side. The muscles involved - trapezius and sternomastoid - may become hypertrophied. There may be dystonia elsewhere.
Prevalence of spasmodic torticollis is 0.006% (5.7 per 100,000) (1)
In the acute presentation there may be sudden pain and an inability to move the head. Commonly the condition occurs in the 15-30 age group. Passive and active movements are restricted. The head is typically held in a position flexed away from the pain.
Spasmodic torticollis (cervical dystonia) is rarely self-limiting. Treatment options include botulinum toxin injections into the affected muscles.
Notes:
Reference:
Annotations allow you to add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation. E.g. a website or number. This information will always show when you visit this page.