Physiotherapy for Torticollis

Physiotherapy for Torticollis: Treatment, Exercises, and Fast Recovery

You wake up with a stiff neck, unable to turn your head without sharp pain. It's impossible to check your blind spot while driving, look over your shoulder, or even find a comfortable position. As physiotherapists specializing in cervical musculoskeletal disorders, we see this scenario daily. Torticollis affects about 10% of adults each year, and this sudden feeling of being "stuck" can be alarming.

The good news is that most cases of torticollis resolve naturally within 2 to 7 days. Severe cases requiring emergency medical intervention are extremely rare (less than 1%). Most of the time, this painful stiffness is your neck's protective reaction to a minor joint or muscle issue.

Here's what scientific research reveals about torticollis:

• Torticollis is often more than just a muscle problem: Contrary to popular belief, torticollis usually results from a cervical facet joint issue, and muscle spasm is a protective consequence, not the primary cause¹
• Immobilization doesn't help: Gradually moving your neck, even if it's uncomfortable at first, speeds up recovery compared to strict rest²
• Physiotherapy treats the root cause: A physiotherapy assessment identifies whether the stiffness comes from a facet joint, an intervertebral disc, or muscle tension, allowing for targeted rather than symptomatic treatment³

This guide explores how physiotherapy treats torticollis, what techniques are used, and when to seek help. You will also discover proven exercises to relieve pain and prevent recurrence. For a complete understanding of different neck pains, consult our comprehensive guide to neck pain.

Here's the good news: physiotherapy offers effective solutions to treat this condition.

What is torticollis?

Torticollis is a painful stiffening of the neck caused by a muscle spasm that prevents head rotation to one side and tilting in the opposite direction, usually resolving within 2 to 7 days.

The term "torticollis" comes from the Latin tortus (twisted) and collum (neck). Clinically, it manifests as persistent neck pain accompanied by a characteristic limitation of movement: the head remains stuck in a position, often slightly tilted to one side with limited rotation to the opposite side.

The primary muscle involved is the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), a muscle located on the side of the neck that connects the sternum and clavicle to the temporal bone of the skull (mastoid process). When this muscle goes into spasm, it holds the head in a forced position and makes neck movements extremely painful.

The distinction between acute and chronic torticollis is important. Acute torticollis appears suddenly (often upon waking or after an abrupt movement) and lasts a few days. Chronic torticollis persists beyond 2 weeks or returns regularly, suggesting an underlying cause that requires a thorough evaluation.

Now that you understand what torticollis is, let's explore the different types encountered clinically.

Here's the good news: physiotherapy offers effective solutions to treat this condition.

What are the different types of torticollis?

There are three main types: muscular torticollis (the most common in adults, often postural), congenital torticollis (present from birth with SCM muscle retraction), and spasmodic torticollis (chronic cervical dystonia in adults).

Muscular Torticollis (Adult)

This is the most common form we treat in physiotherapy. It generally occurs after poor posture during sleep, a sudden awkward movement, or maintaining a strained neck position for a long time (e.g., working on a computer). The sternocleidomastoid muscle spasm is secondary to a facet joint or disc problem in about 70% of cases⁴. Resolution is usually quick (2-7 days) with appropriate treatment.

Congenital Torticollis (Infant)

This form appears at birth or within the first few weeks of life. It is caused by fibrosis or shortening of the SCM muscle, often due to a prolonged position in the womb or birth trauma. The infant presents with a constant head tilt to one side. Early physiotherapy treatment (passive stretches, positioning, tummy time) is essential to prevent cranial deformities (plagiocephaly) and permanent mobility limitations⁵.

Spasmodic Torticollis (Cervical Dystonia)

Also known as cervical dystonia, this is a chronic neurological condition that typically begins in adulthood (ages 30-50). The neck muscles contract involuntarily, either intermittently or constantly, leading to abnormal and painful head postures. In most cases, this form is idiopathic (meaning the cause is unknown) and requires long-term management combining physiotherapy, medication, and sometimes botulinum toxin injections⁶.

Understanding the type of torticollis you have helps guide the appropriate treatment. Let's now explore the most common causes in adults.

Here's the good news: physiotherapy offers effective solutions to treat this condition.

What Causes Torticollis in Adults?

Adult torticollis primarily results from poor posture during sleep, a sudden awkward movement, a cervical facet joint problem, disc inflammation, or, rarely, an ENT infection. It is seldom purely muscular.

Prolonged Poor Posture (Cause #1)

Torticollis often appears after sleeping in a non-optimal position, such as with a pillow that is too high, too low, or too firm. When the neck is held in excessive flexion, extension, or rotation for several hours, it creates tension on the cervical facet joints. Upon waking, these joints feel "stuck" and trigger a protective muscle spasm. This is particularly common after sleeping on a couch, in a car, or in an unusual position⁷.

Prolonged work postures (e.g., poorly positioned computer screen, phone cradled between ear and shoulder) create similar tensions that build up gradually.

Facet Joint Problem (Cause #2)

Facet joints are small joints located at the back of each cervical vertebra. They guide neck movements and can become "stuck" in a certain position after a period of inactivity (e.g., sleep) or a sudden movement. This joint blockage irritates the surrounding tissues and triggers a reflex spasm of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

Contrary to popular belief, torticollis is rarely purely muscular. In our clinical practice, evaluations show joint dysfunction in about 70% of acute torticollis cases⁸.

Disc Inflammation or Bulge (Cause #3)

The intervertebral disc located between two cervical vertebrae can become irritated or bulge slightly backward, putting pressure on adjacent nerve structures or ligaments. This irritation triggers an inflammatory reaction and a protective muscle spasm. If you experience pain radiating into your arm in addition to torticollis, it suggests a more significant disc involvement requiring a thorough evaluation.

ENT Infection (Cause #4 - Rare)

Rarely, an ear, throat, or jaw infection can cause inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes and trigger reactive torticollis. This form is usually accompanied by fever, pain when swallowing, or other infectious symptoms⁹.

Now that you understand the main causes, let's see how physiotherapy effectively treats torticollis by addressing these root causes.

Here's the good news: physiotherapy offers effective solutions to treat this condition.

How Does Physiotherapy Treat Torticollis?

The physiotherapist evaluates the root cause of torticollis (joint, disc, or muscle-related), directly treats this cause with targeted mobilizations and manual therapy, and then prescribes a personalized exercise program to prevent future recurrences.

Thorough Initial Assessment

A physiotherapy assessment for torticollis includes:

• Detailed History: How did the torticollis appear? What was your position upon waking? Was there a triggering movement? Is there radiating pain?
• Postural Observation: Head position, tilt, limited rotation
• Active Mobility Tests: Range of rotation, lateral flexion, flexion/extension
• Palpation: Identification of muscle tension areas (SCM, trapezius, suboccipital muscles)
• Passive Mobilizations: Testing each cervical facet joint to identify the blocked level
• Neurological Tests: If pain radiates, we assess strength, reflexes, and sensation

This assessment helps differentiate a simple muscular stiff neck from a facet joint blockage, a disc irritation, or, more rarely, a condition requiring medical attention.

Treatment-Focused Approach

Unlike approaches that only treat symptoms (e.g., muscle relaxants), physiotherapy addresses the cause identified during the assessment:

• Facet Joint Blockage → Specific joint mobilizations to restore movement
• Primary Muscle Tension → Manual therapy, stretches, myofascial release
• Disc Irritation → Gentle mobilizations, cervical traction, therapeutic positioning

The goal is not just to temporarily relieve pain, but to correct the mechanical problem that caused the muscle spasm.

Personalized Preventive Program

Once the stiff neck is resolved, the physiotherapist prescribes cervical strengthening exercises, stretches, and postural ergonomics to prevent recurrence. Studies show that patients who complete a home exercise program have 50% fewer recurrences of stiff neck in the following year compared to those who only receive passive treatment¹⁰.

Let's now explore the specific techniques used in physiotherapy to treat stiff neck.

Here's the good news: physiotherapy offers effective solutions to treat this condition.

What physiotherapy techniques are used for stiff neck?

Techniques include manual therapy (massages and stretches of the SCM muscle), passive and active cervical mobilizations, electrotherapy and ultrasound to reduce inflammation, cervical traction, and the application of therapeutic heat.

Manual Therapy

The physiotherapist uses their hands to directly treat the affected tissues:

• Sternocleidomastoid Muscle Massage: Releasing tension points along the contracted muscle, from the sternum to the mastoid insertion
• Progressive Manual Stretches: Gentle and controlled stretching of the SCM and accessory muscles (upper trapezius, scalenes) to restore normal muscle length
• Myofascial Release: Sustained pressure techniques on the cervical fascia to release adhesions and improve local circulation

These techniques reduce muscle spasm and improve blood circulation, facilitating the healing of irritated tissues.

Cervical Mobilizations

These are therapeutic movements applied to the cervical vertebrae:

• Passive Mobilizations: The physiotherapist gently mobilizes the blocked facet joint to restore its normal range of motion. These mobilizations, ranging from grades I to IV (according to Maitland's classification), are adjusted based on the patient's tolerance.
• Active-Assisted Mobilizations: The patient actively participates in the movement while the physiotherapist guides and facilitates, improving motor control.
• High-Velocity Techniques (Manipulation): In some cases, a rapid, low-amplitude mobilization ("cracking") may be used to unblock the joint, if appropriate and with the patient's consent.

Studies show that cervical mobilizations significantly reduce pain and improve range of motion in acute stiff neck¹¹.

Electrotherapeutic Modalities

• TENS Electrostimulation (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation): Applying low-intensity electrical currents to block pain signals and stimulate the production of natural endorphins.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound: High-frequency sound waves that create deep heat in tissues, reducing inflammation and promoting cellular healing.
• Therapeutic Laser: Sometimes used for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.

These modalities complement manual treatment and accelerate the healing process.

Cervical Traction

Applying gentle traction force to the cervical spine (manual or mechanical) helps to:

• Decompress intervertebral discs
• Reduce pressure on nerve structures
• Decrease muscle spasm through reflex relaxation
• Improve facet joint space

Traction is particularly useful if torticollis is accompanied by disc or nerve root irritation¹².

Therapeutic Heat

Applying heat (hot pack, infrared therapy) to contracted cervical muscles promotes:

• Muscle relaxation through vasodilation
• Improved local blood circulation
• Decreased joint stiffness
• Tissue preparation before mobilizations or stretches

Let's now move on to the exercises you can do, first under physiotherapy supervision, then at home.

Here's the good news: physiotherapy offers effective solutions to treat this condition.

What exercises can be done for torticollis?

Supervised exercises include passive then active stretches of the SCM muscle to lengthen it, cervical range of motion exercises, progressive muscle strengthening, and the preventive cervical retraction exercise recommended by the OPPQ.

Sternocleidomastoid Muscle Stretches

These stretches are initially performed by the physiotherapist, then taught to the patient:

• Sitting position, straight back
• Slowly tilt the head towards the shoulder opposite the contracted muscle
• Slight upward rotation of the head (looking towards the ceiling on the opposite shoulder side)
• Hold for 20-30 seconds, repeat 3-4 times
• Breathe slowly and deeply during the stretch

Once acute pain has decreased:

• Same position as the passive stretch
• Add light isometric resistance (hand on head) to improve motor control
• Hold for 10 seconds, release gradually
• Repeat 5-6 times

Cervical Range of Motion Exercises

These exercises gradually restore normal neck mobility:

• Gentle Rotations: Slowly turn your head from left to right, within a comfortable range of motion. 10 repetitions on each side
• Side Bends: Tilt your ear towards your shoulder without raising your shoulder. 10 repetitions on each side
• Flexion/Extension: Bring your chin towards your chest, then look up towards the ceiling. Perform slow and controlled movements

Never force through pain. Mild discomfort is acceptable, but acute pain indicates you are going too far.

Progressive Cervical Strengthening

Once mobility is restored (generally after 7-10 days):

• Multi-directional Isometric Resistance: Place your hand against your forehead and push your head forward against the resistance (without moving). Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat for left/right rotation, extension, and side bends. 3 sets of 5 repetitions in each direction
• Deep Neck Flexion: Lying on your back, slightly lift your head (chin towards chest). Hold for 5 seconds. 3 sets of 10 repetitions

These exercises strengthen the deep neck muscles (longus colli, longus capitis) which stabilize the neck and help prevent recurrence.

OPPQ Preventive Exercise: Cervical Retraction

The Quebec Professional Order of Physiotherapy recommends this simple exercise to prevent torticollis¹³:

• Sitting position, back straight against a wall
• Legs extended straight in front of you
• Place your tongue against the roof of your mouth and keep your jaw relaxed
• Only move your head backward while keeping your neck still, as if making a small nodding motion (a small 'yes')
• Your chin will retract slightly backward
• Hold for 10 seconds
• Gently return to the starting position
• Repeat 10 times, several times a day

This exercise strengthens the deep neck muscles and corrects a forward head posture, which is a major risk factor for recurring stiff neck.

A common question: how long does it take to recover from a stiff neck?

Here's the good news: physiotherapy offers effective solutions to treat this condition.

How long does a stiff neck last?

A simple stiff neck usually lasts 2 to 7 days, often resolving naturally within 72 hours if the muscle spasm is minor. With physiotherapy, relief is faster and the risk of it becoming chronic is reduced.

Typical Timeline Without Treatment

• Intense pain and severe limitation of movement
• Difficulty turning the head more than 20-30 degrees
• Constant muscle spasm
• Possible self-management with local heat, gentle movements within a comfortable range

• Acute pain gradually decreases
• Range of motion improves by 10-20% per day
• Muscle spasm lessens
• Gradual return to daily activities

• Return to near-normal mobility (80-90%)
• Possible slight residual pain
• Complete resolution in most cases

If your stiff neck follows this progression, no intervention is strictly necessary. However, physiotherapy significantly speeds up this process.

Timeline With Physiotherapy

Studies show that with early physiotherapy treatment (within the first 48-72 hours)¹⁴:

• 50-60% pain reduction from the first session thanks to joint mobilizations and manual therapy
• 70-80% restoration of mobility in 2-3 days compared to 5-7 days without treatment
• 40-50% reduced risk of recurrence thanks to a preventive exercise program

Most of our patients report significant relief after 1-2 physiotherapy sessions, with complete resolution in 3-5 days.

Factors influencing duration

• Severity of joint blockage: A severe facet joint blockage takes longer to release
• Presence of disc inflammation: If a disc is involved, healing is slower (10-14 days)
• Age and physical condition: Muscles and joints recover more slowly in older or sedentary individuals
• Early intervention: The sooner you consult, the faster the resolution
• Adherence to exercises: Patients who do their home exercises heal faster

If your stiff neck lasts beyond 8 days or worsens despite self-management, it's time to consult a professional.

Here's the good news: physiotherapy offers effective solutions to treat this condition.

When to consult a physiotherapist for a stiff neck?

Consult a physiotherapist if the pain persists for more than 7-8 days, if you experience recurrent episodes, if the pain radiates into your arm, or if you suffer from chronic stiff neck requiring a thorough evaluation.

Recommended consultation criteria

• Your stiff neck is extremely painful and severely limits your daily activities (work, driving, personal care)
• You have a history of recurrent stiff neck (more than 3 episodes in the last year)
• The pain is progressively worsening instead of improving
• You want to speed up healing and prevent recurrences

• Your stiff neck persists beyond 7-8 days without significant improvement
• You frequently experience painful neck episodes without having had a complete assessment
• The pain extends from your neck down into an arm (possible cervicobrachial neuralgia)

Warning signs requiring URGENT consultation (emergency room)

• sudden neck pain accompanied by high fever (>38.5°C)
• Severe headaches with neck pain
• Nuchal rigidity (inability to touch chin to chest)
• Repeated vomiting
• Discomfort with light (photophobia)
• Confusion or altered state of consciousness

This combination of symptoms may suggest meningitis or another serious central nervous system infection, requiring urgent medical evaluation.

Torticollis in Children

If your child has torticollis:

• Congenital Torticollis (present from birth): Consult a pediatric physiotherapist within the first few weeks of life to prevent skull deformities.
• Acute Torticollis in Children: Seek prompt consultation (within 24-48 hours) as certain causes (retropharyngeal infection, atlantoaxial subluxation) require medical attention.

Recurrent or Chronic Torticollis

If you suffer from recurrent torticollis (more than 3-4 episodes per year):

• A comprehensive physiotherapy evaluation can identify modifiable risk factors: inadequate work posture, cervical muscle weakness, joint hypermobility, and sleep ergonomics.
• A personalized preventive program significantly reduces the frequency of recurrences.
• In some cases, an additional medical consultation may be recommended to rule out underlying conditions (such as early cervical osteoarthritis or joint instability).

Let's now look at prevention strategies to avoid future episodes of torticollis.

Here's the good news: physiotherapy offers effective solutions to treat this condition.

How to prevent torticollis?

Prevention involves optimal sleep ergonomics (using an appropriate pillow, maintaining a neutral neck position), correct work posture, preventive strengthening exercises like cervical retraction, stress management, and avoiding sudden movements.

Sleep Ergonomics

• Appropriate height, keeping the neck in a neutral position (aligned with the spine).
• Too high: excessive neck flexion, tension on the posterior joints.
• Too low: excessive extension, compression of the facet joints.
• General Rule: When lying on your side, your nose should be aligned with the center of your body.

• On your back: Pillow under your head and neck, small roll under your knees to reduce lower back tension.
• On your side: Pillow between the knees, cervical pillow maintaining the natural curve of the neck.

• On your stomach (prolonged neck rotation for 6-8 hours).
• Several stacked pillows (excessive neck flexion).
• Couch, recliner for sleeping (non-optimal posture).

Work Posture

• Screen at eye level (top edge of the screen at horizontal eye level).
• Distance of 50-70 cm between your eyes and the screen.
• Forearms supported, shoulders relaxed
• Micro-movement breaks: Every 30 minutes, perform 10 gentle neck rotations

• Avoid cradling the phone between your ear and shoulder
• Use headphones for extended calls
• Hold your phone at eye level when viewing (to avoid "text neck" posture)

Preventative strengthening exercises

As described earlier, this simple exercise, performed 2-3 times a day, strengthens the deep neck muscles and prevents forward head posture¹³.

Once a day, perform isometric contractions (pushing against resistance without moving) in all 6 directions: flexion, extension, left/right rotation, left/right lateral flexion. Hold each contraction for 5 seconds, 3 repetitions per direction.

Stress Management

Psychological stress increases overall muscle tension, including in the neck muscles. The upper trapezius and suboccipital muscles often become chronically tight in stressed individuals, making them more prone to torticollis¹⁵.

Effective strategies:

• Diaphragmatic breathing exercises (5 minutes, twice daily)
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Regular physical activity (releases endorphins)
• Sufficient sleep (7-8 hours)

Avoid sudden movements

Rapid neck rotation movements (e.g., checking your blind spot too quickly in a car, suddenly turning your head to look at someone) can "lock" a facet joint.

It is also important to differentiate torticollis from other neck conditions that may seem similar.

Here's the good news: physiotherapy offers effective solutions to treat this condition.

What is the difference between torticollis and other neck pains?

Torticollis is characterized by an acute blockage with limited rotation to one side, unlike general cervicalgia (diffuse pain without specific blockage), cervical disc herniation (pain radiating to the arm), or cervical sprain (a whiplash">whiplash-type injury).

Torticollis vs. General Neck Pain

• Rotational blockage + visible unilateral muscle spasm
• Sudden onset (often upon waking)
• Marked limitation of ONE specific movement (rotation or lateral flexion)
• Characteristic pain-relieving posture (head tilted and turned)
• Rapid resolution (2-7 days)

• Diffuse neck pain without specific rotational blockage
• Gradual onset (tension buildup)
• Slight limitation in SEVERAL movements
• No characteristic forced position
• Variable progression (can last several weeks)

Torticollis vs. Cervical Disc Herniation

• Localized neck pain
• No radiating pain to the arm
• No numbness or weakness in the arm/hand
• Normal neurological tests

• Neck pain PLUS radiating pain in the arm (cervicobrachial neuralgia)
• Possible numbness, tingling, weakness in the arm or hand
• Worsening with coughing, sneezing, or lifting
• May require imaging (MRI) and medical follow-up
• Longer duration (4-12 weeks)

For more information on cervical herniation, consult our guide on cervical disc herniation.

Torticollis vs. Cervical Sprain (Whiplash)

• Onset without trauma (or micro-trauma)
• No violent triggering event
• Characteristic one-sided stiffness
• Rapid resolution

• Clear traumatic mechanism (car accident, sports impact)
• Rapid acceleration-deceleration movement of the head
• Pain often bilateral and diffuse
• May be accompanied by headaches, dizziness, cognitive symptoms
• Longer recovery (6-12 weeks, sometimes longer)

To learn more about cervical sprain, consult our guide on whiplash and cervical sprain.

Comparison table of distinctive symptoms

If you are unsure about the exact cause of your neck pain, a physiotherapy assessment can clarify the diagnosis and guide the appropriate treatment.

Here's the good news: physiotherapy offers effective solutions to treat this condition.

What are the next steps if you have a stiff neck?

If your stiff neck persists for more than 3-4 days or worsens, schedule an appointment with a physiotherapist for a thorough assessment. Early intervention prevents it from becoming chronic and speeds up recovery through personalized treatment.

Decision Timeline

• Apply local heat (warm compress for 15-20 minutes, 3 times/day)
• Gentle movements within a comfortable range (do not force it)
• Maintain daily activities as much as possible (strict rest does not help)
• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories if needed (as recommended by a pharmacist)

• If progressive improvement: continue self-management
• If stagnation or worsening: consult a physiotherapist
• Track your range of motion daily

• After 8 days, torticollis should no longer be considered "simple acute."
• A professional evaluation identifies the persistent cause.
• Targeted treatment prevents the condition from becoming chronic.

Book an appointment at Physioactif.

Our physiotherapists are trained in evaluating and treating neck and upper back musculoskeletal issues. During your first consultation, we will:

1. Evaluate the precise cause of your torticollis (joint, disc, or muscle-related)

1. Provide direct treatment using mobilizations, manual therapy, and appropriate modalities

1. Teach personalized exercises to speed up your recovery

1. Create a preventive program to help avoid future recurrences

Most of our patients report significant relief starting from their very first session.

What to Expect During Your First Consultation

1. Detailed History (10-15 min): We'll discuss the history of your torticollis, what might have triggered it, and any related symptoms.

1. Physical Assessment (15-20 min): This includes mobility tests, palpation (feeling the affected area), passive movements, and neurological tests if needed.

1. Initial Treatment (15-20 min): We'll begin with joint mobilizations, manual therapy, and other techniques like heat or electrotherapy.

1. Exercise Instruction (5-10 min): We'll demonstrate and supervise your first exercises.

• A list of your current medications
• Any recent imaging reports if available (X-rays, MRIs)
• Any questions or concerns you've noted in advance

Before Your Appointment

To make the most of your consultation:

• Note down any movements that worsen your pain (like turning your head left or right, tilting, etc.)
• Identify activities that are limited by your torticollis (such as driving, working, or sleeping)
• Observe what helps relieve your pain (like heat, a specific position, or a particular movement)
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your neck and shoulders.

A Reassuring Message

Wry neck, although extremely uncomfortable, is almost always a benign condition that resolves completely. With or without treatment, the vast majority of people regain normal neck mobility without lasting issues.

Physiotherapy speeds up this process, prevents recurrence, and provides you with the tools to effectively manage any future episodes. Early intervention (within the first few days) offers the best results, but even wry neck that has lasted several weeks responds well to appropriate treatment.

Do not hesitate to consult a professional if your wry neck persists, recurs frequently, or causes you concern. A professional evaluation provides clarity, relief, and peace of mind.

Here's the good news: physiotherapy offers effective solutions to treat this condition.

References

1. Paris Institute of Physiotherapy. Wry neck, causes and treatments. Consulted January 2026.

1. OPPQ. Wry neck and physiotherapy: prevention and treatment. Professional Order of Physiotherapy of Quebec, 2024.

1. NCBI. Torticollis - StatPearls. Updated 2024.

1. KOSS Sport. Wry neck - Causes and consequences. Paris, 2025.

1. PMC. Effectiveness of the Treatment of Physiotherapy in the Congenital Muscular Torticollis: A Systematic Review. 2024.

1. MSD Manuals. Cervical Dystonia - Neurological Disorders. Professional Edition.

1. Réseau Santé 360. Wry neck: causes and physiotherapy treatment. Réseau Santé 360 Clinic.

1. CAREA Sport. Wry neck: causes, what to do. CAREA Physiotherapy Paris.

1. Ameli. Neck pain, wry neck: what to do and when to consult?. French Health Insurance.

1. Physio Atlas. Torticolis, plagiocephaly and physical therapy. Quebec clinics.

1. PubMed. Physiotherapy management of neck pain. 2021.

1. PubMed. The effect of acute cervical traction on neck muscle stiffness. 2025.

1. OPPQ. Wry neck and physiotherapy: prevention and treatment. Cervical retraction exercise.

1. Pure Physiotherapy. Acute Torticollis. UK.

1. Cahors Osteo. How long does wry neck last: everything you need to know. 2024.