When you hear a word like Torticollis it might sound like a type of spiraled pasta, but it’s literally Latin for “twisted neck!” It comes from the words "tortus" (twisted) and "collum" (neck). Also called wryneck, it’s a pretty common disorder where the neck muscles become stiff and causes the head to tilt and rotate at an odd angle, much like this owl. It can be painful and limit head movement. This condition can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments is essential for finding the best options to treat it.

Watch the video above to see how physical therapist Peter Falleto's first experience with the Rezzimax Tuner to greatly improve the outcome of therapy for the infant of a family friend. It's been several years since then and Peter now uses the Tuner in his practice daily.

Causes of Torticollis

Causes of Torticollis be sorted into two main categories: congenital and acquired. Congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) is the most common form in infants, typically resulting from the shortening or tightening of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. This usually happens when the fetus is positioned incorrectly in the womb, or can also be the result of birth trauma. |
Acquired torticollis, on the other hand, can result from a wide variety of causes including muscle or ligament injury, infections, inflammation, or neurological conditions such as dystonia.

Symptoms of Torticollis

With torticollis, you'll notice an atypical tilt of the head to one side, with the chin pointing in the opposite direction. The child could be experiencing neck pain, limited range of motion in the head and neck, and headaches. In infants, parents might notice a small lump in the neck muscle, restricted head movement, or a preference to look in one direction. If you notice these symptoms, act immediately. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent long-term complications such as facial asymmetry or developmental delays in your child. 

Treatment Options

Treatment for torticollis varies depending on the underlying cause and severity. For congenital muscular torticollis, physical therapy is often the first line of treatment, focusing on stretching exercises to lengthen the affected muscle.

If physical therapy doesn't show sufficient improvement, parents may need to look at more options for treatment. For acquired torticollis, addressing the root cause is essential. This may involve medications for pain relief and muscle relaxation, or botulinum toxin (Botox) injections to reduce muscle spasms. In cases of severe pain or chronic symptoms, surgery might be considered.

Treat it Early for Best Outcomes

Torticollis can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, but with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most people can achieve substantial improvement. For infants, early detection and intervention is essential for the best possible outcome. Parents should seek prompt medical advice if they notice any signs of torticollis. For adults, managing underlying conditions and adhering to treatment plans is crucial. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers ensure optimal management and prevention of complications.