Acute torticollis (wry neck)

A sudden, painful locking of the neck to one side, usually short-lived.

Overview

Acute torticollis, or wry neck, is a sudden onset of painful neck stiffness, often noticed on waking, with the head held to one side. It is usually benign and settles within days to a couple of weeks with gentle movement and pain relief.

Symptoms

Sudden painful neck stiffness, often on waking
Head held tilted or rotated to one side
Marked loss of movement in one direction
Muscle spasm in the neck

Causes

Awkward sleeping posture
Minor joint or muscle irritation
Sudden unguarded movement

Treatment

Reassurance - it usually settles quickly
Gentle range-of-motion exercise
Short-term pain relief and heat
Manual therapy as an adjunct