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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Wry Neck vs. Spasmodic Torticollis
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Wry Neck vs. Spasmodic Torticollis
by Kim__0__0, Oct 25, 1997 12:00AM
Re: Wry Neck vs. Spasmodic Torticollis
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Posted by CCF Neuro MD on October 25, 1997 at 16:27:46:
In Reply to: Wry Neck vs. Spasmodic Torticollis posted by Kim on October 25, 1997 at 11:59:08:
: Can you tell me the difference between having a wry neck and having spasmodic torticollis (ST)? Does something appear in a cat scan if you have ST? I have had problems with tremors and my head pulling backwards for quite some time now and it all appeared when I was given too much of an increase in my Thyroid medicine and I have been under a lot of stress. I am seeing a neurosurgeon and he has put me on Klonopin which has calmed the tremors to some degree but has not helped my head from pushing backwards... any insight you can give me would be appreciated... Thank you... Kim
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Hi, Kim,
Spasmotic torticollis is a dystonic condition of the neck. It can be present in episodic fashion, meaning that it gets worse at times. It can also be superimposed upon by tremor. When that happens, it becomes more difficult to treat. Recently, there have been some active researches looking for the mechanism and the best way of management. Unfortunately, it is still quite difficult to control. The medications that have been tried to treat dystonia with variable sucess include Clonazepam, Artane, and L-dopa. In the focal dystonia, like torticollis, the most effective treatment has proved to be the periodic injection of botulinum toxin into the affected muscles. To benefit from this form of management, you need to be evaluated by a movement disorder specialist. This can be easily and sufficiently accomplished at our Movement Disorders Center led by Dr. Burns. If coming to Cleveland is not a problem for you, please call our appointment desk at (800)223-2273 ext. 45559.
As far as the exact anatomical site underlining spasmotic torticollis, it is still unclear, although there have been research on this topic. The brain structures called thalamus and basal ganglia seem to be involved. This has been demonstrated on MRI and functional imaging studies on some recent research reports.
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options of your specific medical condition.
