Cervical dystonia, also called spasmodic torticollis, is a movement disorder where the muscles in the neck contract involuntarily. This causes the head to twist, tilt, or turn into awkward positions, which may be painful and interfere with everyday tasks like driving or reading. While it can happen at any age, it most often begins in middle adulthood.
The condition is linked to abnormal brain signals that control movement, though the exact cause is not always known. In some cases, there may be a family history of dystonia, while in others, it develops without a clear reason. Stress, fatigue, or certain movements may make the spasm more noticeable or severe.
Symptoms include abnormal head positions, painful muscle spasm, stiffness in the neck, and sometimes a tremor in the head or shoulders. Pain can spread into the shoulders and upper back, and over time the muscle tightness can limit mobility. The condition can affect confidence and quality of life, especially if symptoms are visible.
Treatment often involves botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, which are very effective in relaxing the overactive muscles and reducing both pain and abnormal postures. Medications that relax muscles, physical therapy, and stress-management strategies can also be helpful. Although it may not completely go away, many people achieve significant improvement with ongoing treatment.
Providing specialized neurological and pain management care with a patient-centered approach. Dr. Sader combines clinical expertise with compassionate care to help patients achieve optimal health outcomes.
