What are the classifications of muscular torticollis?

Types of muscular torticollis mainly include congenital muscular torticollis, spasmodic muscular torticollis, secondary muscular torticollis, post-traumatic muscular torticollis, and infection-related muscular torticollis. If symptoms such as abnormal neck tilting, muscle stiffness, or restricted movement occur, it is important to seek timely medical evaluation at a qualified hospital.

1. Congenital Muscular Torticollis: This is the most common type, often caused by abnormal fetal positioning in utero or neck muscle injury during delivery, leading to fibrosis and contracture of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. After birth, affected infants typically present with head tilt toward the affected side, facial asymmetry, and a palpable hard mass in the neck.

2. Spasmodic Muscular Torticollis: The exact cause is not fully understood but may be related to neurological dysfunction, genetic factors, or other causes. It is characterized by involuntary, paroxysmal muscle spasms in the neck, resulting in recurrent abnormal head postures such as tilting or twisting. Patients often experience muscle pain and fatigue.

3. Secondary Muscular Torticollis: Caused by other underlying conditions such as post-traumatic muscle scarring and contracture, cervical spine deformities, or tumor compression in the neck. These conditions lead to abnormal muscle tension and torticollis symptoms, which typically develop gradually after the onset of the primary disease.

4. Post-Traumatic Muscular Torticollis: Commonly follows severe neck injuries such as fractures, dislocations, or muscle tears. Poor healing after injury leads to formation of scar tissue and muscle contracture, restricting normal neck movement and causing the head to remain fixed in an abnormally tilted position.

5. Infection-Related Muscular Torticollis: Results from infections in neck muscles or surrounding tissues, such as pyogenic myositis or lymphadenitis. Inflammatory stimulation can cause muscle spasm and edema, leading to temporary or permanent torticollis. This type is often accompanied by local signs of infection including redness, swelling, pain, and fever.

Daily care involves maintaining proper neck posture and avoiding prolonged head tilting to one side. Gentle neck stretching exercises can improve muscle flexibility. Using a pillow of appropriate height helps maintain the natural cervical curvature. Keeping the neck warm to prevent cold exposure and minimizing triggers for muscle spasms are also important preventive measures.