User:Mr. Ibrahem/Torticollis

Torticollis, also known as wry neck, is an abnormal twisted position of the neck. Most commonly the head is rotated to one side and flexed forwards, though other positions may occur. Pain or fever may be present. Depending on the underlying cause the condition may be short term or last years.

Causes may be divided into variable and fixed. Causes of the variable type includes minor local injury, spasms of neck muscles, benign paroxysmal torticollis, certain medications, increased intracranial pressure, and conversion disorder. Causes of the fixed type include birth defects, including congenital muscular torticollis, bone disorders, eye problems, brain injury, infections, and scarring of the overlying skin. Muscle spasms is the most common cause. Diagnosis is generally by examination.

When due to minor injury, often it will resolve after a few days, even without treatment. Pain may be treated with ibuprofen or paracetamol (acetaminophen) and heat. Other medications that may be used include benzodiazepines and botox. Physical therapy may also be useful. Certain causes may require surgery.

Torticollis is common, with about 90% of people being affected at some point in time. Females are affected more often than males. About 4 in 1,000 are affected at birth, though it may occur at all ages. The term torticollis is from the Latin tortus meaning "twisted" and collum meaning "neck".