Search by keyword or browse our list of services.
Find a provider by specialty, location, or availability.
Available seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
See current studies testing new drugs, devices, and equipment to find better ways to treat and help patients.
For life-threatening medical emergencies, call 911 without delay. For a mental health crisis, call or text 988 for free and confidential crisis support.
Search by specialty and location.
Receive the highest level of care from the region's leading providers.
Find a lab or imaging facility close to you.
Search for a retail pharmacy in your area.
Find an outpatient infusion center.
Visit us to pay bills, ask billing questions, or request billing records.
MyChart
Torticollis is a severe tightness of the muscles on one side of the neck. The tight muscles can make the head turn or lean to one side. And the head may also be pulled forward or backward. It is also called wryneck. There are two types, congenital (at birth) and spasmodic.
Congenital torticollis occurs at or shortly after birth. The neck muscle (sternocleidomastoid muscle) is shortened, bringing the infant's head slightly down and to one side. Experts don't know exactly what causes the shortened neck muscle.
Some cases of congenital torticollis are caused by a bone abnormality in the neck portion of the spine (cervical spine).
Spasmodic torticollis (cervical dystonia) occurs when the neck muscle is tight but not short. Dystonia means that there are involuntary movements and prolonged muscle contraction. It may be inherited or it can happen as a side effect of a medicine. Sometimes it's a symptom of another problem.
In children, treatment is needed to prevent the face from growing unevenly. The caregiver is taught how and how often to stretch the child's neck to help relieve torticollis. For severe cases, surgery may be needed.
In adults, treatment includes using heat and massage to help relieve head and neck pain. Stretching exercises and neck braces may help with muscle spasms. Medicines and injections are also used.
Current as of: July 17, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
To learn more, visit Healthwise.org
© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
People are at the heart of great health care. That's why we are committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care tailored to the communities we serve.
Together with our community partners and patients, we're building a stronger, healthier future for all Idahoans.
