Orthopedic Treatment For Twisted Neck

Causes

• Acute Torticollis – It occurs when a ligament or muscle in the neck or shoulder is irritated or sprained
• Carrying heavy bags or load on the shoulder or in one hand
• Working long on the computer without maintaining a correct posture or eye view
• Exposure of the neck muscles to the cold
• Ear infection
• Not having adequate support under the head and neck while sleeping
• Cervical Dystonia- muscle spasms in the neck that occur in people above the age of 40 years. It leads to abnormal head and neck movements including Torticollis
• Sometimes upper throat infections can affect the lymph nodes that may lead to stiff neck and muscle spasms
• Cervical or head injury
• Damage to the blood vessels that flow through the neck
• Could be a side effect of some medications
• Congenital Defects- the head of the fetus may be wrongly positioned in the womb causing wry neck

Symptoms

• Pain on one side of the neck
• Stiffness in the neck
• Difficulty in turning the neck to the other side
• Inability to keep the neck straight
• The muscles on the affected side feel tender or swollen when touched
• The pain may radiate into the shoulders and upper back
• Tingling sensation in the neck
• The head and the chin may tilt in opposite directions
• Muscle spasms

Diagnosis

• Analysis of the symptoms and detailed examination of the neck
• X-ray and other tests may be suggested in case the doctor suspects a serious underlying cause for the existing condition
• EMG (electromyogram) test may be conducted to locate the affected muscles

Treatment

The symptoms of a twisted neck tend to improve naturally within 24-48 hours. In case they persist longer, the following treatment options may be employed.

• Some gentle neck exercises may promote movement and flexibility. These may reduce the stiffness
• Anti-inflammatory medicines and muscle relaxants may be prescribed
• If the pain is severe in the initial phase, resting the neck for a day or two may be required.
• Driving should be avoided
• Some patients may find relief by use of heat pads
• Gentle traction may be applied
• Maintain a good posture at work and while standing, sitting or walking
• Use a firm pillow while sleeping
• In case of Cervical Dystonia, some medicines may be injected into the neck to paralyze the muscles and stop pain/ spasms
• Surgery may be recommended if the condition becomes chronic. The procedure aims at lengthening muscles, cutting nerves (to interrupt signals) and fusing some vertebrae in the neck.