Encyclopedia of Health and Medicine

360 The Musculoskeletal System
ROTATOR CUFF IMPINGEMENT SYNDROME; SHIN SPLINTS;
SYNOVITIS.
torticollis Extended contraction of the muscles in
the neck, pulling the head down and to the side.
Torticollis, also called wryneck, may be present at
birth or acquired. Acquired torticollis may develop
after injury to the nerves or muscles of the neck
though sometimes the doctor is unable to determine
the cause. Often the neck muscles are stiff. In
addition to the altered posture of the head and
neck, other symptoms of torticollis include
HEADACHE and restricted ability to move the head.
The diagnostic path includes a comprehensive
NEUROLOGIC EXAMINATION to rule out other possible
causes for the symptoms, particularly in adults for
whom the symptoms are new. Treatment aims to
relax and lengthen the neck muscles on the
affected side through PHYSICAL THERAPY as well as
self-performed stretching and FLEXIBILITY exercises
(for adults). Rarely, surgery is necessary to release
the muscles. Baclofen, an anticholinergic medication
that blocks neurotransmitters essential for
MUSCLE contraction, provides relief for some people.
MASSAGE THERAPY and sometimes cervical traction
help acquired torticollis that becomes chronic.
Early treatment usually corrects congenital torticollis.
See also CEREBRAL PALSY; NEUROTRANSMITTER;
SPASM; TALIPES EQUINOVARUS.