



Most people with cervical dystonia see an improvement with these injections, which usually must be repeated every three to four months.



Sensory tricks, such as touching the opposite side of your face or the back of your head, may cause spasms to stop temporarily. Different sensory tricks work for different people, but they often lose effectiveness as the disease progresses.

Heat packs and massage can help relax your neck and shoulder muscles. Exercises that improve neck strength and flexibility may also be helpful.

The signs and symptoms of cervical dystonia tend to worsen when you're stressed, so learning stress management techniques is also important.

Surgical and other procedures

If less invasive treatments don't help, your doctor might suggest surgery. Procedures may include:

  • Cutting the nerves. Another option is to surgically sever the nerves carrying the contraction signals to the affected muscles.