Spasmodic torticollis

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Definition

Spasmodic torticollis, also called torticollis or cervical dystonia, is a painful condition in which your neck muscles contract involuntarily, causing your head to twist or turn to one side. Sometimes the contractions are sustained and other times the neck muscles spasm, causing a repetitive, jerky movement of your head.

Spasmodic torticollis is a form of dystonia. There are various types of dystonia, identified by where they occur in your body and what causes them. All involve involuntary muscle contractions that cause repetitive, often twisting movements, which produce sustained abnormal postures. Dystonias involving only one limb or body part (trunk, neck, face) are referred to as "focal." Spasmodic torticollis is the most common type of focal dystonia.

Spasmodic torticollis can occur at any time from birth to adulthood, but most often it occurs in young adults. It's more common in women. Spasmodic torticollis usually begins gradually and then reaches a point where it doesn't get any worse.

For a few people there can be a spontaneous remission, but often the signs and symptoms relapse. A variety of treatments are available, and your symptoms may ease with one or a combination of these treatments.

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Symptoms