Torticollis

Torticollis
Other names
  • Crick in the neck
  • wry neck
  • stiff neck loxia[note 1]
The muscles involved with torticollis
SpecialtyOrthopedics
Diagnostic methodUltrasonography

Torticollis, also known as wry neck, is an extremely painful, dystonic condition defined by an abnormal, asymmetrical head or neck position, which may be due to a variety of causes. The term torticollis is derived from Latin tortus 'twisted' and collum 'neck'.[1][2]

The most common case has no obvious cause, and the pain and difficulty in turning the head usually goes away after a few days, even without treatment in adults.


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  1. ^ Dauer, W.; Burke, RE; Greene, P; Fahn, S (1998). "Current concepts on the clinical features, aetiology and management of idiopathic cervical dystonia". Brain. 121 (4): 547–60. doi:10.1093/brain/121.4.547. PMID 9577384.
  2. ^ Cooperman, Daniel R. (January 1997). "The Differential Diagnosis of Torticollis in Children". Physical & Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics. 17 (2): 1–11. doi:10.1080/J006v17n02_01.