Acquired Torticollis: Causes, Signs, and Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Prachi Rahul Pawar , Neurologists

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Acquired torticollis is a condition characterized by the involuntary tilting or twisting of the neck, leading to an abnormal head position. This can result in discomfort and limited range of motion, affecting daily activities and overall quality of life.

The primary impact of acquired torticollis on health is the physical strain it places on the neck muscles, which can cause pain and stiffness, making it challenging to move the head freely. Additionally, the abnormal head posture associated with this condition may result in discomfort and self-consciousness, impacting one's emotional well-being.

Types of Acquired Torticollis

Acquired torticollis can manifest in various ways, each presenting distinct symptoms and triggers.

Muscular Acquired Torticollis: Caused by muscle spasms or injuries to the neck muscles, leading to a twisted neck posture.
Cervical Dystonia (Spasmodic Torticollis): Involuntary contractions of neck muscles causing the head to twist or turn involuntarily.
Postural Torticollis: Resulting from poor posture, repetitive movements, or prolonged positions, leading to neck muscle strain and a tilted head.
Secondary Torticollis: Occurring due to underlying conditions like infections, trauma, or neurological disorders affecting the neck muscles.
WhiplashAssociated Torticollis: Developing after a sudden jerking motion of the head and neck, commonly seen in car accidents, causing neck pain and stiffness.

What Are the Symptoms of Acquired Torticollis?

Acquired torticollis typically presents with a distinct pattern of symptoms related to neck muscle spasms and abnormal head positioning.

Neck pain
Stiffness in the neck
Head tilting to one side
Limited range of motion in the neck
Shoulder pain
Muscle spasms in the neck

What Are the Causes of Acquired Torticollis?

Acquired torticollis is commonly caused by muscle spasms or tightening of the neck muscles due to factors such as poor posture, sudden movements, or neck injury.

Muscle strain or injury
Incorrect posture or sleeping position
Prolonged use of electronic devices
Stress or anxiety
Repetitive neck movements
Poor ergonomics at work or home

When to See a Neurologist or Orthopedic Specialist?

Acquired torticollis can significantly impact your daily life, causing persistent neck pain, limited movement, and postural issues. Consult a neurologist or orthopaedic immediately. If left untreated, it may worsen and require hospitalization or surgical intervention.

You should see a doctor if you have:

Persistent neck stiffness or tilting that does not improve after a few days of rest or home care.
Recurring muscle spasms in the neck accompanied by increasing pain or difficulty turning your head.

Get medical help immediately if:

You experience sudden, severe neck pain combined with numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or hands.
Your neck is forcibly twisted and you are unable to move it at all, especially following an injury or trauma.
You develop difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking alongside abnormal neck positioning.

These could be signs of a serious complication like cervical dystonia, which needs urgent care.

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Diagnosis of Acquired Torticollis

Acquired torticollis is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and medical history evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Physical examination
X Rays
MRI
Blood tests

Treatment for Acquired Torticollis

Acquired Torticollis is typically treated through a combination of interventions aimed at relieving symptoms and addressing the underlying cause.

Physical Therapy: Physical therapy involves exercises and stretches to improve neck muscle strength and flexibility, helping to alleviate the symptoms of acquired torticollis.
Medications: Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or muscle relaxants may be prescribed to reduce pain and muscle spasms associated with acquired torticollis.
Botox Injections: Botulinum toxin injections can help relax the affected neck muscles and temporarily relieve the twisting or tilting of the head in acquired torticollis.
Heat or Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the neck area can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with acquired torticollis.
Injections or Surgery: In severe cases of acquired torticollis that do not respond to other treatments, injections of steroids or surgery to release or lengthen the affected neck muscles may be considered.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is acquired torticollis?

Acquired torticollis is a condition characterized by the sudden onset of neck pain and stiffness, causing the head to tilt to one side.

2. What are the common causes of acquired torticollis?

Common causes of acquired torticollis include muscle strain, injury, poor posture, prolonged abnormal positioning, or underlying medical conditions.

3. How is acquired torticollis diagnosed?

Diagnosis of acquired torticollis involves a physical exam, medical history review, and possibly imaging tests like X-rays or MRI to identify the underlying cause.

4. What are the treatment options for acquired torticollis?

Treatment for acquired torticollis may include physical therapy, pain management, muscle relaxants, heat therapy, stretching exercises, and in severe cases, surgery.

5. Is acquired torticollis a permanent condition?

In most cases, acquired torticollis can be effectively treated with conservative measures and resolves within a few weeks to months. However, some underlying causes may require ongoing management.