Torticollis occurs when muscle spasm in the neck causes the head to twist and be pulled over to one side. It’s sometimes called 'wry neck', but in medical terms it’s known as a type of dystonia or abnormal tone in the muscles.

In adults, torticollis is most often caused by sleeping in an awkward position or by an injury to the neck muscles.

When this happens the side of the neck feels painful and is stiff because the muscles are in spasm. It usually recovers within a few days.

However there's another form of torticollis called spasmodic torticollis, which comes on much more gradually. It's not clear what causes this but there's often a family history suggesting that genetics plays a part, and it may be due to problems with the brain's control of posture. At first the affected person may simply notice that their head is turning outside of their control, when trying to read or write for example.

If they try to fight it they may develop a shaking or tremor of the head. Gradually the problem gets worse, especially when the person is stressed, although for some it remains mild.

This type of torticollis tends to develop in middle age and can continue for months or years. Some of those affected also have spasm of the muscles controlling the eyelids (blepharospasm) and the vocal cords (spasmodic dysphonia).

Certain medications, particularly some anti-psychotic drugs used for psychiatric conditions, can also cause torticollis or dystonia. The street drugs amphetamine and cocaine can also cause the condition.

Torticollis can also develop in young babies and children. In such cases, it's believed to result from damage to the neck muscles during birth. The problem is usually first noticed between six months and three years of age.

Development of the face on the affected side may also be delayed, giving the face an asymmetric appearance.

Painkillers, anti-inflammatory and anti-spasm medication can be taken to relieve the symptoms.

Applying heat to the area or gentle massage also helps.

Arnica is a natural anti-inflammatory treatment that works well when applied as a cream to the painful area of the neck.

Sometimes wearing a neck collar can ease the discomfort. In more severe cases of spasmodic torticollis, injections of botox to paralyze the muscle, or surgery, may be needed.

Torticollis in children can usually be corrected with physiotherapy to lengthen the affected neck muscle. Sometimes surgery is also needed.