The chiropractic cure: Torticollis

Torticollis is an acute spasm of the muscles of the cervical spine resulting in a rotation of the neck. Commonly referred to as wry neck, torticollis can be either inherited or acquired from nervous system damage, muscular damage or damage to the upper spine. Torticollis is not only a condition that affects adults, young children can also be at risk of developing torticollis.

Torticollis is very painful and limits the range of motion in the neck. Symptoms from headaches to head tremors, neck pain to the swelling of neck muscles mean that torticollis can not only be painful, but also unbearable, and in extreme cases it can become a lifelong condition. For those who are prone to the constant pain and spasms as well as the inability to move the neck freely, the condition can lead to deformities in one's posture.

It is a common occurrence in infants. Illnesses such as colds and strep throat can be the reason for the onset of torticollis in children. A child will feel discomfort and have difficulty moving his or her head to the side due to the agony they feel when trying to do so. The condition usually disappears within a matter of days. However, if your child is experiencing prolonged symptoms that you believe could be torticollis, it is always best to check with a doctor to determine the severity.

Chiropractic adjustments are essential to reduce the muscle spasms. Before administering therapy for torticollis, your chiropractor will carefully assess the joints, muscles and bones, find out about any injuries that could have led to the condition, as well as have an x-ray done of the affected area. Once all the necessary information is gathered, chiropractic care may include spinal adjustment.

We use multiple therapies to reduce the pain. Chiropractic care can help to alleviate the pain from torticollis but also treat it within a few sessions. The course of treatment for torticollis may include cranial realignment as well as cervical spine adjustment.

Call us at (818) 841-2442 to discuss the various therapies we offer to treat torticollis.