Cervical Dystonia

Cervical dystonia, also known as spasmodic torticollis, is a neurological condition that causes involuntary muscle contractions in the neck. This leads to abnormal head postures, tremors, and often significant pain or stiffness.

At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we support adult patients living with cervical dystonia — particularly those who have developed functional motor symptoms, fatigue, or reduced independence as a result. Our inpatient neurorehabilitation centre offers tailored therapy to help patients restore movement control, manage discomfort, and improve daily function.

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What Causes Cervical Dystonia?

Cervical dystonia is classed as a focal dystonia — a type of movement disorder caused by disrupted signalling in the brain regions that control posture and muscle coordination.

While the exact cause is often unknown, it may be:

• Idiopathic (primary) – with no underlying neurological disease
• Secondary – following trauma, stroke, brain injury, or medication effects
• Sometimes associated with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)

In some patients, symptoms of dystonia can become functionally reinforced — meaning anxiety, movement avoidance, or maladaptive coping strategies worsen the condition over time.

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Common Symptoms

Symptoms can vary but often include:

• Involuntary turning, tilting or jerking of the head
• Neck pain or stiffness
• Muscle tremors in the neck or shoulders
• Fatigue due to constant muscle contraction
• Headaches or pain radiating from the neck
• Difficulty with balance, posture, or walking
• Heightened symptoms under stress, fatigue or pressure

The physical symptoms are often accompanied by emotional distress, embarrassment in social situations, and reduced confidence in daily activities.

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Our Rehabilitation Approach

Royal Bucks provides inpatient neurorehabilitation for complex motor symptoms — including those related to dystonia and FND. Our multi-disciplinary team supports the recovery of function and self-management through:

Tailored inpatient therapy including:

• Neurophysiotherapy to improve head control, neck mobility, and postural retraining
• Occupational therapy for pacing, daily task adaptation, and neck support strategies
• Pain and fatigue management strategies
• Education and coping techniques to manage flare-ups

Patients are supported by a full team of clinicians with experience in treating both organic and functional movement disorders.

Explore Our Inpatient Rehabilitation Centre
Learn About Functional Neurological Disorder

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When to Consider Inpatient Support

Cervical dystonia may benefit from an inpatient programme if:

• Pain or involuntary movement is impacting your daily life
• You’ve tried outpatient therapies or medication without sufficient relief
• You’re developing secondary symptoms (e.g. fatigue, fear of movement, gait issues)
• You need coordinated input from multiple specialists (physio, OT, psychology)

Our rehabilitation service is designed to restore confidence, improve movement, and support longer-term coping for patients living with this challenging condition.