Cervical Dystonia

Overview

Cervical dystonia is a condition where the neck muscles contract involuntarily causing the head to twist to aside. It can also cause the head to tilt front and back involuntarily. Cervical dystonia causes a massive amount of pain to the patient.

Signs and Symptoms

Tipping forward chin downward known as anterocollis, Tilting backward chin upward called retrocollis, Tilting sideways ear to shoulder known as laterocollis

Common Causes

Neurological disorders, Medication that blocks dopamine, such as some antipsychotics, Genetic mutation

Risk Factors

Age around 30, Women, Family history

Investigation Techniques

Electromyography (EMG), MRI brain

Treatment and Prevention

Botulinum toxin, Anticholinergics, Dopaminergics, GABAergics, Anticonvulsants, Deep brain stimulation, Physical therapy