Cervical Dystonia Specialist in Tampa

What is Cervical Dystonia?

Cervical dystonia, also called spasmodic torticollis is a medical condition in which the neck muscles involuntarily contract. This causes the head to twist and/or turn, and can make the head thrust forward and tilt backward, sometimes uncontrollably. This can be painful at times.

What Symptoms Does Cervical Dystonia Cause?

If the condition is mild to moderate, only symptoms patients have is some discomfort or stiffness in the neck. In severe cases the spasms turn and tilt the head uncontrollably.

What Causes Cervical Dystonia?

Most of of the time the cause is unknown. At times, shoulder, neck, or head injuries, or certain anti-psychotic and anti-nausea medications can cause cervical dystonia.

How is Cervical Dystonia Diagnosed?

Cervical dystonia is diagnosed on the symptoms patients have and a physical examination by the doctor. MRI or EMG (electromyogram) tests are sometimes ordered to rule out any other underlying causes.

How is Cervical Dystonia Treated?

Mild cases usually resolve on their own. Moderate to severe cases are managed with FDA approved Botox® injections. Cervical dystonia caused by medications usually resolve after stopping the medications.

Why Chose Dr. Kalava?

Unlike other physicians Dr. Kalava uses Ultrasound guidance to precisely place Botox® in the affected muscles.