Abstract
Torticollis accompanying abnormal rotatory motion of the atlantoaxial joint is described in the Jinnaka's Orthopedics as inflammatory torticollis, but its occurence with no known incident of inflammation is not rare. In 1968 Wortzman reported 23 cases of such torticollis as “rotary fixation of the atlanto-axial joint”. Another 17 cases are reported as “atlanto-axial rotatory fixation” by J. William in 1977. In the past year we have had the opportunity to observe three similar cases which we would like to report.
One case is of a 11-year old boy to whom torticollis occurred three months ago without any apparent induction at all. He improved temporarily after application of cervical traction by a doctor in the neighborhood. Later he visited this clinic upon recurrence of aggravating symptoms. The wryneck was corrected by continuous application of cervical traction by placing the patient on a reclining table, but there is recurrence of symptoms when the traction is removed. A corrective cast is now applied to the affected region, which is being observed further.
The second case involves an 8-year old boy who experienced torticollis one month after having had an episode of tonsillitis. Traction had been applied for two weeks for correction. He is now wearing a cervical cuff and is being observed further.
The third case concerns a 12-year old boy. A scoliosis was detected in the course of a physical examination at school. There are no symptoms of which the patient is aware, nor would he admit that there is scoliosis. No corrective action has been taken. He is visiting this clinic for further observation.
