What is Spasmodic Torticollis?
Spasmodic torticollis is a neurological disorder that is characterized by episodes of torticollis, a position-related form of neck pain. The episodes are typically brief and last from a few seconds to a few minutes, but they can occasionally last for hours. Spasmodic torticollis is often linked to a prior head or neck injury and is frequently associated with vertebral misalignment along the upper cervical spine.
Signs and Symptoms of Spasmodic Torticollis
The most common symptom of spasmodic torticollis is pain in the neck that comes on suddenly and causes involuntary contractions in the muscles of the neck. These episodes typically occur several times per day and can vary in severity. Other symptoms of spasmodic torticollis include muscle spasms, headaches, dizziness, and nausea. In most cases, episodes of spasmodic torticollis are triggered by certain positions or movements of the neck.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Spasmodic Torticollis
The upper cervical spine is the topmost segment of the spinal column and is made up of seven vertebrae. Because of their position in the spine, the upper cervical vertebrae play a key role supporting and stabilizing the musculoskeletal structures of the neck.
If one or more of the upper cervical vertebrae are shifted out of their natural alignment, the ensuing mechanical imbalances can lead to inflammation, tightening, and cramping in the muscles of the neck and upper back, potentially impeding the transmission of nerve signals from the brainstem. Left untreated, dysfunction in the nervous system can have a cascade effect on muscle and movement control, causing the involuntary neck spasm episodes associated with spasmodic torticollis.
How Our Upper Cervical Spine Treatment for Spasmodic Torticollis Works
The primary goal of our treatment for spasmodic torticollis is to re-establish normal alignment and function of the upper cervical spine. To achieve this, Dr. Gordon Elder, our in-house chiropractic specialist, uses the Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic Technique to target misaligned vertebrae and reboot the body's natural healing mechanisms. Our treatment approach is non-invasive, drug-free, and does not require any extended recovery time. In many cases, our patients begin to experience relief from their symptoms after just a few adjustments.
The first step in our treatment is a 25-30-minute consultation with Dr. Elder. During this time, Dr. Elder may use a range of advanced 3-D imaging tools to scan your spine and determine whether you are suffering from a vertebral misalignment. Afterwards, you’ll be provided with a comprehensive spinal health report and have an opportunity to review your treatment options with Dr. Elder.
If a misalignment is detected, Dr. Elder will perform a series of Blair chiropractic adjustment techniques to coax the affected vertebrae back into their natural position. Don’t worry, Blair adjustments are low-force and precise — Dr. Elder will never use techniques that require painful cracking or twisting of the spine.
We strongly recommend that first-time patients return for regular check-ups (for at least 3-5 months) with Dr. Elder to ensure their adjustment has set. Most patients average between 10 and 15 appointments with Dr. Elder to achieve long-lasting/permanent results.
If you’re looking for a natural and effective treatment option for spasmodic torticollis, get in touch today to speak with Dr. Gordon Elder. Located in Lubbock, Texas, Dr. Elder also services Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, El Paso in Texas, and Hobbs in New Mexico.
Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.