Cervical dystonia (CD) is a condition that causes neck muscles to tighten or spasm without your control. CD is also known as spasmodic torticollis. If you have CD, your head may turn in an unusual way. Or it may be forced into an abnormal posture. The symptoms can even make it hard to do simple daily tasks such as dressing yourself or driving a car. But CD can be treated. Getting treatment for CD may help you return to your normal activities.
The first step to feeling better is talking to your doctor about your symptoms. Common signs of CD may include any combination of the following:
- Muscle spasms or tightness, with or without pain
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Aches and pains around the neck, which become more severe and more constant over time
- Head turning, pulling, or shifting to one side
- Shaking or tremor
- Symptoms that improve after sleep or rest
- Symptoms that are worse after stress and/or activity (eg, driving, walking, writing, watching television)
- Problems swallowing
These symptoms may get worse with time. If they do, they usually stop getting worse after 5 years. In 10% to 20% of people, CD symptoms may go away completely within 5 years. The symptoms may come back, however.
If you have CD, you may find it hard to do simple things. Even dressing, shaving, housework, driving a car, or using a computer can become a challenge. Also, dystonia can often affect people who have spent years in jobs or hobbies that require repetitive movements. For example, it sometimes affects musicians, writers, artists, golfers, rowers, and tennis players.
There is a good chance that your symptoms can be successfully managed with the proper cervical dystonia treatment. It may help to know that there are healthcare professionals who understand your condition. They have experience helping patients find relief.