Torticollis (Wry Neck)

Cooler nights and mornings are swiftly upon us - thank goodness! But a change in temperature can sometimes wreak havoc on our bodies, especially our necks! In the last few weeks we have seen numerous cases of torticollis - colloquially known as wry neck. This neck pain often springs up in batches when the temperature begins to cool off at night time. The muscles in the neck tense up due to a chill in the air, and after being held in one position for an extended period of time (while we are sleeping!), they are in spasm once we wake up, often causing a considerable amount of pain  

What does wry neck look like in adults? 

•  Painful, stiff neck

•  Restricted range of motion & pain upon trying to move your head

•  Headaches & neck muscle spasms 

•  Sudden onset - usually just as you wake up 

What does torticollis look like in babies & children? 

•  Fixated head posture to one side & unwilling to turn their head to look at you

•  Trouble breastfeeding or bottle feeding on one side 

•  If the torticollis has been there for a long time, flattening of the head on one side, both sides or at the back can present 

How can chiropractic help? 

•  Muscular releases through the neck alleviate the spasms

•  Neck and upper back adjustments (manual or low-force) restore the function and mobility to the vertebrae and nervous system 

•  Reduces inflammation & pain levels 

•  Home-care advice or appropriate referral pathways