Health A-Z

Spasmodic Torticollis, also known as Cervical Dystonia, is a neurological movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions in the neck that cause abnormal movements and postures. Here's an overview of its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

1. Abnormal Neck Movements: Involuntary twisting or jerking movements of the neck, which may cause the head to turn or tilt in various directions.
2. Muscle Spasms: Sustained or intermittent muscle contractions in the neck muscles, leading to pain and discomfort.
3. Headache: Chronic headaches, often localized to the neck or base of the skull.
4. Neck Pain: Persistent or intermittent neck pain, which may worsen with movement or stress.
5. Abnormal Posture: The head may be held in an abnormal position, such as tilted to one side or pulled forward or backward.

1. Botulinum Toxin Injections: This is the primary treatment for spasmodic torticollis. Botulinum toxin (such as Botox) is injected into the affected neck muscles to temporarily block nerve signals that cause muscle contractions. The injections typically need to be repeated every few months to maintain their effectiveness.
2. Oral Medications: Medications such as muscle relaxants, anticholinergics, or benzodiazepines may be prescribed to help alleviate muscle spasms and pain associated with spasmodic torticollis.
3. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy techniques, including stretching exercises, posture training, and massage therapy, can help improve muscle function, reduce pain, and optimize mobility.
4. Surgery: In rare cases where other treatments are ineffective, deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery may be considered. This involves implanting electrodes in specific areas of the brain to modulate abnormal neural activity and reduce symptoms.

1. Clinical Evaluation: A neurologist or movement disorder specialist will conduct a thorough physical examination, including an assessment of muscle tone, strength, and coordination.
2. Medical History: A detailed history of symptoms, onset, progression, and any triggering factors will be obtained.
3. Imaging Studies: While there are no specific tests to diagnose spasmodic torticollis, imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans may be ordered to rule out other underlying causes of neck pain and abnormal movements.
4. Botulinum Toxin Injection Test: In some cases, a diagnostic test with botulinum toxin injections may be performed. If symptoms improve after injections, it can help confirm the diagnosis of spasmodic torticollis.