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Torticollis
Medical Questions » Torticollis
| Name: Torticollis |
| Also known as: |
| Severe spasm of a muscle in the neck. The sternocleidomastoid muscle that runs diagonally from the mastoid process at the base of the skull behind the ear across the neck to the top of the breast bone (sternum) is most
commonly involved. |
Causes of Torticollis
Usually caused by repeated turning of the head (eg. watching a tennis match) or sleeping heavily and awkwardly (eg. after excess alcohol), but rarely may be due to a tumor of the brain affecting the nerves to the involved
muscles. |
Symptoms of Torticollis
Vers' painful spasm of muscles, usually on only one side of the neck, that limits neck movement and causes the head to be held at an abnormal angle. |
Tests for Torticollis
None normally necessary unless a brain cause is suspected in intractable cases, when a CT scan is performed. |
Treatment for Torticollis
Muscle relaxants (eg. diazepam) and powerful pain killers (eg. pethidine), often by injection, with pain relieving tablets to follow. Heat and physiotherapy are also useful.
|
Complications of Torticollis of its treatment
None significant. |
Likely Outcome of Torticollis
Usually settles in a day or so with treatment. |
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