It most often occurs in people over the age of 40 years. What are the other causes of torticollis? Cervical dystoniaĬervical dystonia (also known as spasmodic torticollis) is a problem where abnormal movements develop in the muscles of the neck. Allowing certain muscles of the neck to be exposed to cold (sleeping in a draught).Carrying heavy unbalanced loads (for example, a briefcase or shopping bag).Poor posture when looking at a computer screen.Sitting or sleeping in an unusual position without adequate neck support.However, it may be due to a minor sprain or irritation of a muscle or ligament in the neck. It is a common cause of neck pain in young people. It can happen in people with no previous neck symptoms. The cause of sudden-onset wry neck (acute torticollis) is often not known. Your doctor would only refer you for further tests if a condition other than acute torticollis is suspected. Tests such as an X-rays are not generally needed. The examination can usually confirm the diagnosis and will also usually exclude the rarer causes of torticollis. Your doctor or a healthcare professional can usually make the diagnosis by performing an examination of your neck. Many people with milder symptoms diagnose this on their own. The diagnosis of sudden-onset wry neck (acute torticollis) is made from the typical symptoms. The good news is that usually you will not need to have any tests to find out what is causing the problem.

Movement of your neck is restricted, particularly on one side.

Pressure on certain areas may trigger a 'spasm' of these muscles.The muscles of your affected side may be tender.The pain may spread to the back of your head or to your shoulder.Occasionally, the pain is in the middle of your neck.You may find it very difficult when you try to straighten your neck, due to pain.The pain is usually just on one side of your neck and stiffness of the muscles in that area twists the neck to one side.These symptoms usually come on very quickly, often overnight, so that you wake up with pain and stiffness down one side of your neck. Developing a wry neck (acute torticollis) occurs when the muscles supporting your neck on one side become painful.

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