Torticollis is a deformity of the neck in which the muscles are spastic or shortened.
In this condition the neck gets twisted and the head is tipped to one side, while the chin is turned to the other. Torticollis develops most often between the ages of 30 and 60. However, it can occur at any age. Torticollis occurs in 1 out of 10,000 people. It is more common in women than men.

Alternative Names of Congenital Torticollis : Wry neck, Loxia

Causes of Congenital Torticollis
It is caused due to these factors :

• Genetic cause:  Inheritance of  faulty genes from parents.
• Acquired cause : Develops as a result of damage to the nervous system or muscles
• Unknown cause : If the condition occurs without a known cause, it is called idiopathic torticollis. Torticollis may develop in childhood or adulthood. Congenital torticollis (present at birth) may occur if the fetus' head is in the wrong position while growing in the womb, or if the muscles or blood supply to the fetus' neck are injured.

Signs & Symptoms of Congenital Torticollis

• Stiffness of neck muscles.
• Swelling of the neck muscles which maybe present at birth.
• Neck pain.
• Headache.
• Head tremor.
• Shoulder is higher on one side of the body.
• Limited range of motion.

Diagnosis of Congenital Torticollis

• A physical examination will show a shortening of the neck muscles and the head tilting toward the affected side while the chin points to the opposite side.
• X-rays of the neck may show an associated disorder such as tuberculosis, scar tissue, or arthritis.

Treatments of Congenital Torticollis

• Passive stretching and positioning are treatments used in infants and small children. Such treatments are often successful, especially if started within 3 months of birth.
• Surgery to correct the neck muscle may be done, if other treatment methods fail. It involves surgically removing the nerves to the affected neck muscle .
• Acquired torticollis is treated by identifying the underlying cause of the disorder.
• Application of heat, traction to the cervical spine, and massage may help relieve head and neck pain.
• Stretching exercises and neck braces may help with muscle spasms.
• Medications used to treat this condition include an anticholinergic drug called baclofen. Injection of botulinum toxin can temporarily relieve the torticollis, but repeat injections every 3 months are usually need.

Prevention of Congenital Torticollis
Apart from early treatment which may prevent a worsening of the condition, there are no preventive measures.

When to seek Medical Advice
Medical avice is required if there are symptoms and signs which lead to this condition.
Also if symptoms do not improve with treatment, or if new symptoms develop.