Kulsum International Hospital

Spasmodic Torticollis

On this page
  1. Overview
  2. Symptoms
  3. Causes and risk factors
  4. Diagnosis
  5. Treatment
  6. When to see a doctor

Overview

Spasmodic torticollis usually starts in middle age and can be painful. Treatment can reduce symptoms significantly.

Symptoms

  • The head turning, tilting forward, backward or sideways
  • Neck pain
  • Jerky head movements or tremor
  • Raised shoulder on one side

Causes and risk factors

The cause is often unknown. It may run in families or follow an injury.

Diagnosis

A neurologist makes the diagnosis based on examination.

Treatment

Treatment includes botulinum toxin injections, medicines, physiotherapy and, in severe cases, surgery or deep brain stimulation.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if you have abnormal head postures, neck spasms or neck pain that does not go away.

This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Our doctors

Consultants in the KIH departments that diagnose and treat Spasmodic Torticollis.