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Torticollis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

A photo of a woman sitting on a bed and holding her neck in pain, representing a number of issues that an Ann Arbor chiropractor can help with.

Have you ever woken up with your neck twisted or feeling “stuck” in one position?

This could be torticollis, a condition that causes the head to tilt or rotate abnormally due to muscle or spinal issues.

While torticollis can be temporary, recurring cases may signal underlying structural problems in the spine or nervous system.

In this guide, we’ll explore the common causes, symptoms, and treatments for torticollis—and how specific structural chiropractic care may help bring lasting relief.

What Causes Torticollis?

Torticollis can develop suddenly or gradually. Some common causes include:

  • Muscle strain or injury – Often caused by sleeping in an awkward position or sudden neck movement.
  • Congenital torticollis – Present at birth due to tight neck muscles or abnormal positioning in the womb.
  • Spinal misalignments – Shifts in the upper cervical spine that interfere with nerve communication and muscle balance.
  • Degenerative changes – Arthritis or disc issues may contribute to chronic neck misalignment.
  • Infections or inflammation – Rarely, irritation in the neck or throat can lead to torticollis.

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Symptoms of Torticollis

Torticollis symptoms can vary from mild discomfort to severe restriction. Common signs include:

  • Head tilted to one side
  • Limited ability to turn the head
  • Neck pain and stiffness
  • Shoulder pain or uneven shoulders
  • Headaches caused by neck tension
  • Muscle spasms in the neck

In children, torticollis can sometimes cause developmental issues with posture and head shape if left untreated.

Conventional Treatment Options

Traditional treatments for torticollis may include:

  • Heat, ice, and stretching – To relieve tight muscles.
  • Medication – Anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxers may be prescribed.
  • Physical therapy – Focused on restoring range of motion.
  • Injections or surgery – Considered in severe or congenital cases.

While these options can help manage symptoms, they don’t always address the root structural cause.

How Your Local Ann Arbor Chiropractor Can Help with Torticollis

Specific structural chiropractic care is different from general chiropractic adjustments. Rather than focusing only on short-term pain relief, it targets spinal misalignments that may contribute to torticollis.

By restoring proper alignment in the upper cervical spine, chiropractic care can help:

  • Reduce muscle tension and spasms
  • Improve neck mobility
  • Correct posture imbalances
  • Support long-term structural stability

If you or your child struggles with torticollis, a consultation with your Ann Arbor chiropractorcan be the first step toward relief and prevention of future episodes.


Contact Dr. Gessert’s office at (734) 221-0362 or by submitting a contact form.

Customer Reviews

  • Dr.Andrew Gessert is an outstanding professional with amazing skill in adjusting my neck and spine. I can continue in my sport feeling great after an adjustment. You don't know how great you can feel till your nerves and spine are aligned. Thank you Dr. Gessert.

    Pamela S.

  • I started seeing Dr. Andrew last summer after my Cross Fit coach listened to my complaints about my body and urged me to get a consultation. It’s now been almost a full year, and not only do I feel so much better physically—much less chronic pain—but I feel much more in touch and in tune with my body, due to the treatment he provides, and also the at-home stretching that he prescribed. Dr. Andrew is friendly and always takes the time to listen to how I’m feeling, and he never fails to amaze me at how he can assess my physical problems and use his training to correct them. I would recommend him to anyone who has pain and wants to feel better!

    Aaron R.

  • Great experience for me. Easy to work with and accommodating. Andy has a very clear process and steps through it adjusting on the way. He is professional, communicates well and is never rushed. Every thing is very well explained and measured. My results have been great. Life changing. Highly recommended.

    Willy L.

  • I’m very impressed with Dr. Gessert’s skill in adjusting my neck and spine; especially given the fact that I have had numerous orthopedic surgeries. Not only am I walking straighter, he also provided me with an ongoing strengthening plan to maintain the results I am happily experiencing. Highly recommend a visit to Pivotal Chiropractic.

    Steven P.

  • Dr. Andrew is an amazing Chiropractor. He is always prompt with communication. His office is very clean and he has state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment. Dr. Andrew takes the time to customize a plan for you for better motion, better posture, and less discomfort. I would absolutely recommend Dr Andrew to anyone looking for Chiropractic professionals.

    Jeff O.