A Pain in the Neck – Acute Torticollis Ever Get a Charlie Horse in Your Neck?
What is Acute Torticollis? Torticollis comes from two Latin words: torti (twisted) and collis (neck). Acute torticollis is a condition sometimes called wry neck. It is a painful muscle spasm in the neck, similar to having a charlie horse in your leg. A person will often awaken with acute torticollis after spending the previous day outdoors in the wind or having slept with an open window that brought a cool draft into the bedroom. Acute torticollis is a temporary condition that normally takes approximately two weeks to resolve. Pain is Your Body’s Way of Communicating Any time your body is experiencing pain or distress try to think of it an opportunity to become a more active caregiver of your needs. Pain is merely a communication tool the body uses to let you know something needs your attention. The acute attack of pain that is typical of torticollis is probably an indicator that you are in need of rest. Take this time to pamper yourself for a few days and allow your body’s natural def
