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What causes torticollis?

Torticollis can be present from birth (congenital) or develop later in life (acquired). Torticollis can be the result of Injury or inflammation of the muscles that control the neck (the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid), infections, or a variety of spine and nervous system disorders. The cause of congenital torticollis is not known, but it may be due to problems in positions of the head and neck during pregnancy and/or birth.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is torticollis?

Torticollis is a persistent twisting of the neck due to problems in the muscles responsible for neck movement.

What are the symptoms of torticollis?

With torticollis, the head is tilted to the side with the chin pointing the other way. The neck may be painful, hard to move and rotate, and the neck muscles are stiff and swollen. It is usually first noticed when waking from sleep.

What is ocular torticollis?

In some children, problems with eye muscles make it hard for the child to control horizontal motion of the eyes. To compensate for that and to see properly, the child starts tilting their head. If this behavior persists and the vision problem is not treated, the …

How is torticollis diagnosed?

Torticollis can be diagnosed from a physical examination. An imaging technique, such as an ultrasound, may also assist with the diagnosis.

How is torticollis treated?

Torticollis is normally treated with physiotherapy. A doctor can demonstrate special stretching exercises that will normally help to relieve torticollis. A neck brace (cervical collar) can stabilize the neck and help maintain correct posture. For infections and …

Can torticollis be cured?

Torticollis treatment is usually effective.

Will torticollis clear up on its own?

Torticollis can often go away naturally. However, in infants it is best to treat it promptly to avoid any complications.

Can torticollis be prevented?

There is not much you can do to prevent torticollis, other than maintaining a good sleep posture and trying not to strain your neck. If torticollis appears in your child, treating it early will help relieve it faster and prevent the condition from worsening.

Will torticollis keep coming back?

In some cases, torticollis can come back again. Ask your doctor about more advanced treatment options.

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About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 10 Jul 2015
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Votes: 1253 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR)

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