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Wryneck, also known as cervical dystonia or spasmodic torticollis, is a condition characterized by involuntary muscle contractions in the neck, causing the head to tilt to one side, turn, or twist abnormally. This can lead to discomfort, pain, and restricted neck movement.
Prolonged forward head posture or improper sleeping positions.
Overuse or injury from repetitive neck movements or sudden jerks.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), exposure to cold or damp environments can contribute to muscle stiffness.
Degenerative changes or misalignment in the cervical spine. Neurological factors: Conditions affecting the nervous system, such as dystonia.
Emotional stress or anxiety leading to muscle tightness.
The most critical aspect of treating wryneck is identifying the specific areas of muscle spasms and cervical joint misalignment, such as the commonly affected C2/C3 vertebrae, through thorough examination and assessment. Addressing both issues simultaneously is the key to treating both the symptoms and the root cause.
Below are the physiotherapy methods for treating wryneck:
Targeting three levels—skin, myofascial muscles, and skeletal joints—from superficial to deep, to realign and restore the overall structure. This method is ideal for addressing widespread pain.
Acupuncture is also effective in accelerating tissue repair and improving circulation.
Utilizing techniques such as interferential current, ultrasound, and laser therapy to provide immediate pain relief and reduce inflammation.
Mr. Li, a 30-year-old office worker, developed wryneck due to prolonged forward head posture from work. One morning, he woke up with neck stiffness and severe pain when turning his head, leading to a wryneck diagnosis. On the first day, he tried warm compresses and gentle massage, which provided slight relief but did not fully resolve the discomfort. He then sought help from a physiotherapist.
First Treatment: The physiotherapist used manual therapy to relax deep neck muscles and cervical facet joints, combined with acupuncture to thoroughly relieve muscle spasms. Simple cervical mobility exercises were also taught. On the same day, Mr. Li’s pain was reduced by 50%.
Second Treatment (Three Days Later): Following additional manual therapy and acupuncture, Mr. Li’s neck mobility significantly improved, allowing him to turn his head normally.
Third Visit (One Week Later): By the third follow-up, Mr. Li had fully recovered with no discomfort. The physiotherapist focused on preventive measures, including recommending an appropriate pillow (approximately 10 cm in height), advising against prolonged forward head posture, and teaching a 3-minute nightly neck mobility and stretching routine.
Most cases of wryneck resolve on their own within 2-3 days, especially with self-care methods such as warm compresses, gentle massage, and appropriate stretching. If symptoms persist beyond 3 days or worsen, it is advisable to consult a physiotherapist to assess for potential cervical spine issues or other underlying causes.
For wryneck, warm compresses (40-45°C, applied for 15-20 minutes) are generally recommended, as they promote blood circulation and relieve muscle spasms and stiffness. Ice packs are suitable for acute injuries (e.g., sprains) with swelling, but since wryneck typically involves muscle tightness, avoid ice within the first 24 hours to prevent exacerbating stiffness.
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