Cervical dystonia

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Cervical dystonia (pronunciation: /ˈsɜːrvɪkəl dɪsˈtoʊniə/), also known as spasmodic torticollis, is a rare neurological disorder that originates in the brain. The term "cervical" refers to the cervical spine, the seven vertebrae that form the upper part of the spine that supports the neck. "Dystonia" is derived from the Greek words "dys" (meaning difficult or faulty) and "tonos" (meaning tension or tone).

Definition

Cervical dystonia is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions in the neck that cause abnormal movements and postures of the neck and head. It can occur at any age but is most often diagnosed in middle age.

Symptoms

Symptoms of cervical dystonia can vary in severity and may include:

  • Tremor
  • Neck pain
  • Headaches
  • Inability to move the neck and head normally

Causes

The exact cause of cervical dystonia is unknown. It may be related to a problem in the basal ganglia, a part of the brain that is involved in controlling movements. Some cases may be inherited.

Treatment

Treatment for cervical dystonia typically involves a combination of medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. Medications may include botulinum toxin injections, which can help reduce the abnormal movements and postures.

Related Terms

See Also

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