What is Spasmodic Torticollis?
Spasmodic torticollis is a neurological condition that affects the neck. Also known as cervical dystonia or wry neck, spasmodic torticollis causes erratic, involuntary spasms in the neck that result in the neck becoming twisted out of place.
This condition generally affects adults and is believed to be hereditary. There are multiple triggers for bouts of spasmodic torticollis, however, the initial onset of the condition is commonly caused by trauma or injury to the upper cervical spine.
Signs and Symptoms of Spasmodic Torticollis
The most obvious symptom of spasmodic torticollis is involuntary spasms and twisting of the head and neck. Individuals suffering from this condition may also notice a reduced range of motion in their neck and shoulders, back pain, headaches, eye issues, tongue issues, and ear pain.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Spasmodic Torticollis
As the exact cause of spasmodic torticollis is still unclear, treatment for this condition generally focuses on managing symptoms and reducing episode frequency. However, recent research has found a potential link between spasmodic torticollis and misalignments in the upper cervical spine.
As the topmost segment of the spine, the upper cervical spine supports a range of key muscles and nerves, the most notable of which are the spinal cord and brainstem. When there is a misalignment in the upper cervical spine, the impacted vertebra can directly intrude on the spinal cord, leading to both local inflammation and potential disruption to the flow of nerves between the spinal cord and brainstem. Left untreated, nerve flow impedances can trigger the onset of serious neurological complications like spasmodic torticollis.
How Our Upper Cervical Spinal Treatment for Spasmodic Torticollis Works
If you are tired of living with spasmodic torticollis, consider speaking with an upper cervical chiropractic specialist. At Advance Upper Cervical Chiropractic, we use a modern form of chiropractic treatment known as the Blair Technique; Blair chiropractors use correction techniques that focus specifically on the intricate relationship between the upper cervical spine and the function of the central nervous system.
Our board-certified Blair Technique chiropractor, Dr. Noah Kaplan, specializes in treating conditions like spasmodic torticollis. During your initial consultation, Dr. Kaplan will perform a series of diagnostic tests to determine the location of misalignments in the upper cervical misalignment that could be contributing to your spasmodic torticollis. As one of the only practices in Walnut Creek with access to state-of-the-art 3D-imaging equipment, Dr. Kaplan is able to create a three-dimensional image of the cranio-cervical junction of your spine. This offers a comprehensive view of your upper cervical spine and will make it easy to pinpoint any misalignments in this region.
Following diagnosis, Dr. Kaplan will begin treatment using certified Blair Technique methods. This will involve a series of gentle and precise correction techniques that aim to coax the misaligned vertebrae back into place. By restoring natural alignment to the upper cervical spine, we can help to improve the function of the central nervous system and reduce the frequency and intensity of spasmodic torticollis episodes.
Spasmodic torticollis doesn’t have to prevent you from doing the things you love, get in touch today to speak with Dr. Kaplan about the health of your upper cervical spine. Located in Walnut Creek, California, Dr. Kaplan also services Pleasant Hill, Concord, Lafayette, Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, Pleasanton, and Livermore.
Schedule an Appointment or a Free Consultation
Call us at (925) 357-3080 or click on the button below to schedule an appointment or a free consultation.
