Torticollis (Wryneck)

What is torticollis?

Torticollis, also known as wryneck, is a twisting of the neck that causes the head to rotate and tilt at an odd angle.

What causes torticollis?

The exact cause of torticollis is unknown.

Congenital muscular torticollis is more likely to occur in first-born children. This may also be accompanied by hip dislocation. The cause is likely from intrauterine positioning resulting in injury to the neck muscles.

Acquired torticollis may be caused by irritation to the cervical nerves from trauma or vigorous movement. Additional causes may include:

• sleeping in an awkward position
• anxiety
• neck muscle injury at birth
• burn injury
• any injury that causes heavy scarring and skin shrinkage
• neck muscle spasm

Torticollis may also be a secondary condition that results from the following:

• slipped facette (two small joints on the side of the spine)
• herniated disc
• viral or bacterial infection

Treatment for torticollis:

Specific treatment for torticollis will be determined by your physician based on:

• your age, overall health, and medical history
• extent of the condition
• your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• expectations for the course of the condition
• your opinion or preference