Torticollis

Torticollis: when the neck loses mobility and enters a protective state 

Torticollis is an alteration characterized by restricted neck mobility, typically accompanied by pain, stiffness, and a locking sensation. 

It may present as difficulty rotating the head, tilting it to one side, or maintaining a comfortable posture. 

Although it often appears suddenly—such as waking up with a locked neck—it can also be related to tension accumulated over several years.

Why does torticollis occur?

Torticollis can be triggered by various factors, including: 

• Muscle overload 

• Sudden movements 

• Prolonged, sustained postures 

• Stress and increased nervous system tension 

• Lack of cervical mobility 

• Dysfunction in the deep neck musculature 

The cervical muscles serve a vital function: keeping the head stable and enabling precise movements. 

When an area feels vulnerable, the body may increase muscle tension as a protective mechanism.

When torticollis is left untreated 

An isolated episode may improve, but when recurrent blockages occur and the area does not properly regain its mobility, the neck can enter a pattern of sustained tension. 

Over time, this can lead to: 

• Increased cervical stiffness 

• Reduced range of motion 

• A constant sensation of a heavy, tense neck 

• A greater susceptibility to future episodes 

When a muscle remains in a prolonged state of tension, it can increase tissue sensitivity and decrease its capacity to relax properly.

Torticollis from adolescence and its impact on adulthood 

Many individuals begin experiencing cervical discomfort from an early age due to: • Poor posture 

• Repetitive habits  

• Lack of mobility 

• Sustained muscle tension. 

If these patterns are not corrected, the body can adapt to this movement style and maintain compensations for years. 

Consequently, a cervical issue that begins as occasional can develop into a highly sensitive area in adulthood. 

The importance of treating the first episode 

When torticollis occurs, the goal should not merely be to wait for the pain to subside. 

It is crucial to restore: 

• Mobility 

• Muscle relaxation 

• Neck coordination 

• Movement control. 

Treating the area from the very beginning can help prevent the neck from remaining in a constant protective pattern. 

The relationship between muscles, fascia, and cervical stiffness 

The cervical region is composed of multiple muscle layers that work in synergy. 

When sustained tension is present, a sensation of stiffness may arise because the tissues lose their ability to glide and relax properly. 

The superficial and deep musculature of the neck, the trapezius, the levator scapulae, and the upper thoracic region can all contribute to this locking sensation.

Physiotherapy treatment 

Treatment aims to restore movement and reduce muscle overload in the affected area.

It may include: 

• Manual therapy 

• Deep dry needling 

• Invasive therapies such as percutaneous electrolysis 

• Radiofrequency / diathermy

Prevention 

To reduce the recurrence of torticollis, it is essential to: • Maintain adequate cervical mobility 

• Work on deep neck musculature 

• Improve posture and daily habits

• Reduce accumulated tension 

• Learn to manage physical loads and stress.