Can acupuncture cure spasmodic torticollis?
Jan 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
The effectiveness of acupuncture treatment for spasmodic torticollis depends on the progression and cause of the condition. If the condition is acquired and in its early stage, acupuncture may promote recovery and help improve abnormal muscle function. However, if the condition is congenital or has progressed to the middle or advanced stage, treatment outcomes are limited, and such patients may require timely surgical intervention under a physician's guidance.
Generally speaking, whether acupuncture can restore cervical dystonia depends mainly on the progression and cause of the condition. If it is caused by acquired factors and is currently in the early stage of the disease, recovery is possible. However, if it is caused by congenital factors and is in the middle or late stages, recovery may not be achievable. If experiencing any discomfort, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
If it is in the early stage of cervical dystonia and is caused by acquired factors, such as excessive mental stress, overexertion, bacterial infection, or viral infection, timely acupuncture treatment under a doctor's guidance may lead to recovery, with relatively ideal results. At this stage, the neck muscles have not yet developed into stubborn lesions, and acupuncture can regulate the meridians, gradually restoring nerve function and muscle activity to normal.
However, if cervical dystonia is in the middle or late stages and is caused by genetic factors, acupuncture treatment can only alleviate pain and relieve nerve compression to some extent, but cannot completely cure the condition. Genetic factors are irreversible, and abnormal muscle conditions may also remain unchanged. It is recommended to follow medical advice for surgical treatments timely, such as neuromodulation or accessory nerve sectioning.
It should be noted that regardless of the stage of cervical dystonia development, timely treatment is essential to prevent further worsening of the condition. Meanwhile, adequate rest should be ensured during treatment to avoid local muscle strain.
