Cervical dystonia, also called spasmodic torticollis, is a neurological condition. Involuntary contractions of the neck muscles may cause you to twist, tilt or turn your neck into abnormal postures—which can be painful and awkward.
There are many unanswered questions about this often-misunderstood condition, but the specialists at Summit Orthopedics offer treatments that can help people in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area reduce muscle spasms and live without cervical dystonia pain.
Understanding Cervical Dystonia
Dystonia refers to a movement disorder, and cervical refers to the upper part of your spine in your neck. Cervical dystonia is a type of “focal” dystonia, which means it affects one specific part of the body. Abnormal signaling in the brain triggers unwanted muscle contractions that pull the head into four common positions:
- Leaning to the front (anterocollis)
- Tilting to the side (laterocollis)
- Tipping to the back (retrocollis)
- Turning to one side (torticollis)
For many people, cervical dystonia includes a mix of these postures, and the severity varies. Some people experience mild stiffness or a subtle tremor, while others struggle with balance or basic activities.
Cervical Dystonia Causes
Researchers aren’t sure what causes cervical dystonia. It may be related to head, neck or shoulder injuries, or there could be a genetic link. In most cases, there is no known cause. However, researchers find it is more common in middle-age adults than children and teens.
Cervical Dystonia Symptoms
Cervical dystonia symptoms typically develop gradually, not suddenly, and they vary from day to day. Symptoms can worsen with stress or physical activity that causes neck and shoulder muscle tension. People with cervical dystonia may experience symptoms like:
- A twitching motion of the head
- Abnormal neck or head posture
- Headaches
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Uncontrollable neck muscle contractions
Cervical Dystonia Diagnosis
First, your provider will review your health history because cervical dystonia could have a genetic factor. Your provider will conduct a thorough physical examination to understand your symptoms and how they impact your everyday life.
Your provider may also order blood tests or diagnostic imaging, such as an MRI, to rule out these or other conditions.
Cervical Dystonia Treatment
Although there is no known cure for cervical dystonia, various treatments and techniques can help manage its symptoms. Together with your provider, you can explore options to alleviate these symptoms.
- Botulinum toxin injections. This medication works by blocking some nerve signals and relaxing overactive neck muscles. Injections typically last a few months before they need to be repeated.
- Heat and massage. Cervical dystonia is a neurological condition that often causes pain. Heat and massage may help soothe tense neck muscles and ease spasms.
- Sensory tricks. Many people with cervical dystonia find relief by practicing sensory tricks. Lightly touching a different part of the body, like the side of the face or back of the head, can help counteract the spasms.
- Targeted stretching. Physical therapy can help you manage your symptoms and learn proper body mechanics to prevent future issues.
Neck pain and spasm relief close to home
Cervical dystonia isn’t dangerous, but it can be disruptive and make it difficult to do everyday tasks, like driving. The team at Summit Orthopedics has comprehensive expertise in neurological and spine conditions, so you can find relief with the right treatment plan for you—without a long drive.
Summit Orthopedics has nearly 30 convenient locations across the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area, serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Our state-of-the-art, comprehensive orthopedic centers offer same-day appointments from a team of experts who offer the full scope of orthopedic care.
Find your Summit Orthopedics spine expert, request an appointment or call us at (651) 968-5201 to schedule a consultation.
