Torticollis, spasmodic (neck muscle spasm)
About Torticollis, spasmodic (neck muscle spasm)
Produces distortion of the neck secondary to spasm of the neck muscles. Also called cervical dystonia. The head is involuntarily turned to one side during an attack. The disorder can occur from birth to adulthood but is most common in women in their 20-30s. Some cases resolve on their own but others need specific therapy. The cause can be inherited (spasmodic torticollis), acquired after an injury, or unknown (idiopathic torticollis).Symptoms
Limited range of motion, headache, head tremor, neck pain, one shoulder is higher than the other, stiffness of neck muscles.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to rule out other causes of the syndrome may be done.Common tests: MRI.
OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
- Morphine Oral
- Tramadol
- Acetaminophen and Propoxyphene
- Fentanyl Buccal (Transmucosal)
- Acetaminophen and Codeine
- Hydrocodone
- Fentanyl Transdermal
- Hydromorphone Oral and Rectal
- Meperidine
- Oxycodone
- Etodolac
- Salsalate
- Tolmetin
- Indomethacin
- Sulindac
- Piroxicam
- Ketorolac
- Oxaprozin
- Diclofenac
- Celecoxib
- Ketoprofen
- Nabumetone
- Diflunisal
- Benztropine Mesylate Oral
- Trihexyphenidyl
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy depends on the severity of the disease and may include: physical therapy, behavior modification, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn or Aleve), pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), narcotic medications, anxiolytics (diazepam/Valium, lorazepam/Ativan), anti-Parkinson medications, anti-seizure medications, anti-botulism toxin (Botox) injections, and rarely surgery.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Neurology · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT)
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Torticollis, spasmodic (neck muscle spasm).