Torticollis, also known as bowed neck, is a painful condition in which the head is bent and twisted to one side due to abnormal contraction of the neck muscles. This condition is common in infants and can occur for a variety of reasons.

Torticollis symptoms include limited head movement, neck pain, or headache. Treatment options vary depending on the severity and cause of the symptoms. These may include exercises, positioning changes, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery.

Congenital torticollis is a type of torticollis that occurs in infants at or after birth. Acquired torticollis occurs after birth, in infancy or childhood.

Torticollis (curved neck disease) types

• Congenital torticollis: This condition is usually present at birth. A baby may develop this condition while in the womb or shortly after birth. Congenital torticollis can occur when the baby holds their head tilted to one side or when the neck muscles develop unevenly.
• Acquired torticollis: This type of torticollis can occur after birth, during infancy, or childhood. It usually develops due to injury, viral infection, inflammation affecting the neck muscles, or other causes. It can cause symptoms such as holding the baby's head tilted to one side or contracting the neck muscles.

Causes of torticollis (neck curvature disease)

Torticollis is a condition that causes the neck to bend abnormally and the head to turn to one side. Torticollis is most commonly seen in infants or children and can occur for a variety of reasons. A more detailed look at the causes of torticollis:

• Sternocleidomastoid muscle shortening: This condition occurs when one of the infant's sternocleidomastoid muscles becomes shortened or stiff. These muscles control neck movement, and if one side is shortened, it can cause the head to tilt to that side.
• Uterine position during labor: The baby's position in the womb can contribute to torticollis during labor. For example, prolonged head-down or incorrect head positioning can cause neck muscle problems.
• Abnormalities of muscle tissue : Abnormalities such as blood accumulation or thickening of muscle tissue in the neck muscles of babies can restrict neck movements and lead to torticollis.
• Abnormal movements and sleep positions: Abnormal movements or sleep positions of the baby can affect the neck muscles and cause torticollis.
• Viral infections: Viral infections can cause inflammation and muscle spasms in the muscles of the neck, leading to torticollis.
• Injuries: Trauma or injuries to the neck area can cause muscle damage and torticollis.
• Cervical disc herniation: A herniated disc or disc problem in the neck can also cause neck muscle spasm and torticollis.
• Gastroesophageal reflux: In some cases, gastroesophageal reflux can cause spasms in the neck muscles and thus torticollis.

Torticollis can occur for different reasons in different individuals, and treatment will depend on the underlying cause. Treatment typically includes physical therapy, exercises, positioning changes, and sometimes surgery. It's important to begin treatment early, as early intervention can increase the chances of recovery.

What are the symptoms of torticollis (curved neck disease)?

Torticollis is a condition in which the head is tilted to one side due to abnormal contraction of the neck muscles. The symptoms of torticollis can be summarized as follows:

• Head tilt: The most obvious symptom is a head tilt to one side, usually hunched over one shoulder.
• Restricted head and neck movement: A bowed neck is a condition in which head and neck movement are more limited than normal. This means the head's ability to turn or tilt in other directions is restricted.
• One shoulder is elevated: In some people with torticollis, one shoulder may appear higher than the other. This may be due to unbalanced contraction of the neck muscles.
• Tension, stiffness or swelling in the neck muscles: People with torticollis may experience tension, stiffness or swelling in the neck muscles.
• Irregular features in the facial features: In cases of long-term torticollis, non-symmetrical features may appear in the facial features.
• Neck pain: Torticollis typically causes pain in the neck area. This pain is caused by muscles tightening as the head is tilted to the side.
• Headache: Tilting the head to the side can cause headaches.
• Head tremor: In some cases, people with torticollis may experience shaking or shaking of the head (head tremor).

Torticollis symptoms can vary from person to person and can vary in severity. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosis of bent neck disease (Torticollis)

The following steps can be followed to diagnose torticollis:

Physical examination: The doctor carefully examines the patient's head and neck area. The degree to which the head is tilted and the condition of the neck muscles are noted.

Medical history: The doctor will ask about the patient's medical history and symptoms. He or she will also assess any risk factors the baby was exposed to during or after birth.

Ultrasound : Used primarily to diagnose congenital torticollis in infants, ultrasound provides detailed images of the neck muscles and neck area.

Imaging tests: Depending on the severity of the condition, your doctor may order imaging tests. These tests may include:

• Neck X-ray: X-ray images of the neck area may be taken.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan: Provides cross-sectional images of the head and neck.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: Provides detailed images of the neck muscles and structure.

Diagnosis is based on the patient's symptoms, age, health history, and other factors. It's important to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and evaluation. Treatment options will be determined based on the diagnostic results and the severity of the patient's condition.

Curved neck disease (Torticollis) treatment methods

Treatment for torticollis may vary depending on the patient's age, severity of symptoms, and underlying causes. A more detailed explanation of torticollis treatment options:

Congenital torticollis treatment:

• Physical therapy and exercises: This treatment method focuses on lengthening the neck muscles and improving balance. Physical therapists help develop muscles and neck movement with specialized exercise programs. Special positions and exercises can be developed for babies.
• Stretching exercises : These exercises help lengthen the neck muscles and bring the neck into the correct position.

Treatment of acquired torticollis:

• Treating the underlying cause: Treatment for acquired torticollis involves treating the underlying cause. For example, if an infection is present, appropriate antibiotics will be prescribed.
• Painkillers: If the pain is severe, the doctor may prescribe painkillers.
• Botulinum toxin injections: Botulinum toxin can temporarily paralyze muscles, which can help them relax. These injections can be used to relieve muscle spasms.
• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help restore neck muscles and movements.
• Heat therapy and massage: Heat therapy and massage applied to the neck area can help relax muscles and relieve pain.
• Supportive products: Some patients may be advised to use a neck collar or special pillow. These products can help correct neck posture.
• Sleeping position recommendations: Doctor's recommendations should be sought regarding sleeping positions for babies.

Surgery is rarely necessary and is usually considered only when other treatments have failed or if the condition is severe. Such surgeries can be performed to lengthen or relax muscles.

Treatment for torticollis should be tailored to the individual's age, symptoms, and severity of the condition. Therefore, consulting a doctor is important for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

What happens if torticollis is left untreated?

If torticollis is left untreated or not treated promptly, various negative consequences can occur. These consequences may vary depending on the individual's age, the severity of the condition, and the timing of treatment. Some possible consequences of untreated torticollis include:

• Restriction of head and neck movements: Torticollis causes restriction of head and neck movements. This can limit activities of daily living.
• Aesthetic problems: Especially in cases of long-term and untreated torticollis, asymmetrical appearance problems may occur in the facial features and neck area.
• Chronic pain: Torticollis can cause chronic pain in the neck area. This pain can negatively impact quality of life.
• Size changes: Torticollis can cause muscles to develop unevenly, leading to size differences. For example, one shoulder may appear higher than the other.
• Neck deformities: If left untreated, long-term torticollis can lead to neck deformities.
• Chronic condition: Untreated torticollis can persist throughout life and become a chronic condition.