What does it feel like?
Your head may turn in an unusual way or be forced into an abnormal, uncomfortable position. A tight tension causes spasms in your neck. You may be unable to look down. This condition can be painful and challenging.
Causes of Cervical Dystonia
It is unknown what exactly causes the muscle contractions associated with Cervical Dystonia. Some cases appear to be linked to head, neck, or shoulder injuries or certain drugs, such as antipsychotic or anti-nausea agents. More research is needed to understand the exact genetic or environmental factors that may cause or contribute to Cervical Dystonia.
Common signs may include:
Muscle spasms or tightness
Uncomfortable pulling or drawing in the neck
Painful head turning
Neck pain (reported in up to 91% of patients)
Head tremor
Four common positions of Cervical Dystonia
With Cervical Dystonia, the head and neck positions may vary depending on which muscles are affected. These pictures show a few of the common postures involved in Cervical Dystonia:
Rotated
(Torticollis)
To the side
(Laterocollis)
Backward
(Retrocollis)
Forward
(Anterocollis)
Why is it hard to diagnose?
People may suffer with Cervical Dystonia for years before being diagnosed and treated due to:
- Symptoms being subtle and differing greatly from person to person in beginning stages
- Symptoms resembling other physical ailments, such as a stiff neck
Find a BOTOX® Specialist
Find a doctor near you who is experienced with BOTOX® therapy and can help treat your Cervical Dystonia.
Results Found
Please note: Although we update our directory regularly, this list may not have current provider information. This list is compiled by AbbVie and includes physicians known to have experience with BOTOX® in the past 5 years. The results shown may not be inclusive of all physicians who may have experience with BOTOX® or therapies like BOTOX® in your area. Please see the Terms & Conditions for additional details.