Torticollis, commonly known as “wry neck,” is a condition characterized by abnormal twisting or tilting of the neck. This misalignment often causes the head to lean to one side, accompanied by pain and muscle stiffness. Torticollis can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (develops later in life), and it can be caused by a variety of factors, such as muscle spasms, nerve damage, or trauma to the neck. Acquired torticollis often leads to difficulty moving the neck, headache, and discomfort, while congenital torticollis can present in infants, where one side of the neck muscle is shortened or tight.

Torticollis symptoms vary depending on the severity and cause of the condition, but common signs include:

• Sudden or gradual neck stiffness
• Head tilted to one side, with the chin often rotated toward the opposite shoulder
• Pain in the neck and upper back
• Muscle spasms in the neck
• Difficulty turning the head or looking over the shoulder
• Headaches, particularly from muscle tension
• Limited range of motion in the neck

Torticollis can develop due to several factors:

• Muscle Spasms: Overuse, stress, or sudden movements can cause spasms in the neck muscles, leading to abnormal twisting.
• Congenital Torticollis: Present at birth, typically due to the positioning of the baby in the womb or muscle tightness in one side of the neck.
• Trauma or Injury: Whiplash or other neck injuries can result in torticollis, causing misalignment and pain.
• Neurological Disorders: Damage to the nerves that control neck muscles can lead to muscle contractions, resulting in torticollis.
• Degenerative Conditions: Conditions like cervical spondylosis (neck arthritis) can contribute to muscle stiffness and abnormal head positioning.

In this article, we will explore how chiropractic treatment can benefit torticollis, backed by scientific studies and evidence that support its effectiveness.

Chiropractic care offers a natural, non-invasive approach to treating torticollis by addressing the root causes of neck misalignment and muscle dysfunction. Chiropractors focus on realigning the spine, improving muscle flexibility, and relieving tension to restore normal neck function. Here’s how chiropractic care specifically helps with torticollis:

1. Spinal Adjustments to Realign the Cervical Spine

Torticollis is often caused by misalignments (subluxations) in the cervical spine. The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae (C1-C7), and any misalignment in these vertebrae can create tension or compression on the muscles, nerves, and surrounding tissues. These misalignments can lead to the abnormal twisting or tilting of the head seen in torticollis. Chiropractic adjustments focus on the precise alignment of these vertebrae to restore proper function. By adjusting the misaligned cervical vertebrae, chiropractic care helps relieve pressure on the muscles, nerves, and joints, thus reducing pain and inflammation while restoring normal neck movement.

• • • C1 (Atlas) and C2 (Axis): These two vertebrae are crucial in neck movement. The Atlas supports the skull, and the Axis allows rotation of the head. Misalignments in these vertebrae can restrict rotation and contribute to abnormal head positioning.
    • C3-C7 Vertebrae: These vertebrae support the neck and control many of the muscles and nerves responsible for neck movement. Misalignments in the lower cervical vertebrae can lead to pain and restricted mobility in the neck and upper back, which is common in torticollis.

2. Muscle Tension and Spasm Relief

The primary muscles involved in torticollis are the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) and trapezius muscles. The SCM muscle, which extends from the sternum and clavicle to the base of the skull, plays a significant role in head movement. In cases of torticollis, the SCM can become tight, shortened, or spasming, causing the head to tilt to one side. Similarly, the trapezius, which runs along the upper back and neck, can become tense, exacerbating the abnormal head position.

Chiropractors use soft tissue therapy, including myofascial release and trigger point therapy, to release muscle spasms and alleviate tension in these key neck muscles. By targeting tight muscles, chiropractors help to restore balance between the muscles of the neck, reducing the twisting or tilting of the head caused by muscular dysfunction. This not only relieves pain but also promotes normal muscle function and reduces the recurrence of muscle spasms.

3. Restoring Range of Motion

In torticollis, the abnormal muscle contraction and joint restrictions limit the range of motion in the neck. Chiropractors use mobilization techniques and gentle spinal adjustments to restore movement and reduce stiffness in the cervical spine. They may also incorporate cervical traction, a technique that gently stretches the neck to alleviate pressure on the discs and joints, promoting better alignment and increasing the range of motion.

By restoring mobility in the facet joints (the small joints between each vertebra in the neck), chiropractic care helps the spine move more freely and helps relax the muscles surrounding the joints. This can significantly reduce the discomfort and stiffness associated with torticollis.

4. Correcting Postural Imbalances

Poor posture, particularly forward head posture, can exacerbate torticollis by increasing strain on the cervical spine and surrounding muscles. Forward head posture is common in people who spend long hours sitting at computers or using smartphones, causing the head to lean forward and putting excessive pressure on the neck. This posture can overstretch muscles like the levator scapulae, which helps lift the shoulders, and the scalenes, which are involved in neck movement. The altered posture can contribute to muscle imbalances, leading to the development of torticollis.

Chiropractors evaluate the alignment of the entire spine, not just the neck, to detect postural issues that may be contributing to the condition. They will recommend exercises and stretching routines designed to strengthen the deep cervical flexors (muscles that support the neck) and improve posture. Proper alignment of the thoracic spine (T1-T12) and lumbar spine is also essential, as it can help prevent additional strain on the cervical spine and reduce the risk of developing torticollis.

5. Correcting Postural Imbalances

If torticollis is associated with cervical disc problems, such as herniation or degeneration, chiropractic spinal decompression therapy may be used. This therapy gently stretches the cervical spine to relieve pressure on the discs and nerves, allowing for improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and pain relief. By alleviating compression on the intervertebral discs (the shock-absorbing pads between the vertebrae), decompression helps promote healing and reduce the symptoms of torticollis.