Torticollis - Severe stiff neck

Signs or Symptoms

Severe contraction of the neck muscles that prevents turning of the head and neck

Description

The contraction is frequently sudden and severe. It can last for a short time or be permanent.

Causes

The exact cause of this condition is not known. There are many possible causes running from a freak accident, sleeping in an awkward position, to alterations in normal nerve control of the neck muscles.

Standard treatment

Drugs to relax the muscles and reduce inflammation are prescribed. Physical therapy aimed to relax and stretch the muscles is performed.

AK Approach

Tests are performed to isolate muscles that are under functioning. These are then treated to equalize the muscle stress in the neck. This is followed by specific procedures to reestablish the normal muscle function in the neck. These procedures may include spinal manipulation, cranial corrections, specific muscle therapies aimed at normalizing the muscle coordination. Nutritional therapies aimed at increasing factors that would lead to relaxing the muscles and reducing any inflammation is considered. Other lifestyle modifications are used to prevent or minimize exacerbating the condition. A specific program for your needs is created.