Abstract

Dystonia is a chronic disorder characterised by an aberration in the control of movement. Sustained co- contraction of opposing agonist and antagonist muscles can cause repetitive and twisting movements, or abnormal postures. Cervical dystonia (CD), often referred to as spasmodic torticollis, is a type of focal dystonia involving the muscles of the neck and sometimes the shoulders. It is a relatively rare neurologic disorder. This condition frequently results in cervical pain and disability as well as impairments affecting postural control. This article reviews the etiology and pathophysiology of the disease as well as medical and physical therapist management for people with cervical dystonia.