Torticollis

Lawrence, KS | Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic

Cervical torticollis, also known as wry neck, is a condition in which the muscles of the neck contract involuntarily, causing the head to rotate or tilt to one side. Torticollis may develop suddenly after sleeping in an awkward position, following an injury, or from muscle irritation. Some cases are congenital, while others are associated with neurological or musculoskeletal conditions.

At Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic, we provide evidence-based, conservative treatment to reduce pain, restore normal neck movement, and improve function so you can return to your daily activities as quickly and safely as possible.

How We Treat Cervical Torticollis

Every treatment plan is individualized based on your symptoms, examination findings, and the underlying cause of your condition. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:

• Chiropractic spinal adjustments to improve mobility of the cervical and upper thoracic spine when clinically appropriate

• Manual therapy to reduce muscle tension and improve soft tissue mobility

• Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) to address chronic muscle dysfunction and promote soft tissue healing in appropriate cases

• Dry needling to reduce muscle spasms and deactivate painful trigger points

• Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) to improve tissue mobility when indicated

• Corrective exercises to improve neck mobility, posture, and muscular control

• Personalized home stretching and mobility program to support long-term recovery

Our goal is to reduce muscle spasm, restore normal cervical motion, and prevent recurrent episodes of neck pain.

Symptoms of Cervical Torticollis

Common symptoms include:

• Neck pain

• Head tilted to one side

• Difficulty turning the head

• Muscle spasms in the neck

• Neck stiffness

• Headaches

• Shoulder pain

• Pain with driving or looking over your shoulder

• Tenderness of the neck muscles

Symptoms may appear suddenly and can significantly limit normal daily activities.

What Causes Cervical Torticollis?

Cervical torticollis may result from:

• Sleeping in an awkward position

• Sudden neck movements

• Muscle strain

• Sports injuries

• Motor vehicle accidents

• Poor posture

• Cervical joint dysfunction

• Stress-related muscle tension

• Certain neurological conditions

• Medication-related muscle reactions

Because some causes require immediate medical attention, a comprehensive examination is important before beginning treatment.

What to Expect During Your First Visit

Your initial evaluation at Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic is designed to identify the source of your symptoms and determine whether conservative chiropractic care is appropriate.

Your visit may include:

• Detailed health history and symptom review

• Cervical spine examination

• Orthopedic and neurological testing

• Range of motion assessment

• Postural evaluation

• Functional movement assessment

• Personalized treatment recommendations

If advanced imaging or referral to another healthcare provider is indicated, we will help coordinate your care.

Why Choose Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic?

Our chiropractors evaluate the cervical spine, upper back, and surrounding musculature to identify the mechanical factors contributing to torticollis. Your treatment may include chiropractic adjustments, manual therapy, Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), dry needling, IASTM, and corrective exercises to restore movement and reduce pain.

Our treatment plans are designed to:

• Reduce neck pain

• Improve neck mobility

• Decrease muscle spasms

• Improve posture

• Restore normal daily function

• Help patients avoid unnecessary medications whenever appropriate