Back On The Move Osteopathy & Sports Therapy
Torticollis
What is Torticollis:
Torticollis, also known as wry neck, is a condition where the neck involuntarily adopts a turned or twisted position. There are two main types of torticollis:
- congenital (present at birth)
- acquired (often caused by trauma, infection, or a reaction to medication).
Symptoms
-
Sudden onset of severe unilateral neck pain
-
Neck pain and stiffness
-
Limited range of motion in the neck
-
One shoulder higher than the other
-
Inflamed or swollen neck muscles
-
Tremors
-
Headaches
-
Vision changes
-
Fever
Causes and Risk Factors:
The exact cause of torticollis is often unknown, but potential factors may include
poor posture, sleeping without adequate neck support, chronically strained neck, vision problems, and reactions to certain medications (e.g., antipsychotics
Risk factors:
Include neck trauma, neck burns or scars restricting neck muscle movement, arthritis, herniated disk, and infections in the posterior pharynx that can irritate nerves supplying neck muscles.
Diagnosis:
Torticollis is diagnosed through a medical history and physical examination, distinguishing between neurologic and mechanical pain and ruling out serious underlying conditions.
How we can help:
Osteopaths - Osteopaths can use gentle manipulations to reduce muscular tension in the neck and improve movement in the joints of the neck and upper back
Laser Therapy - Due to its pain-relief and muscle-release characteristics, laser therapy indicates the probable benefit of relaxation of spastic muscles for patients
Therapist - Stretching and strengthing exercise are prescribed as part of the rehab program