Question
I have had spasmodic torticollis for over 40 years. I receive botox injections from a movement disorder specialist. However, the shots don't help much and I think have atrophied my muscles and made my neck stiffer. My head and shoulder muscles pull to one side. Can chiropractic help me at all?

Answer
Louise,

I'm surprised that you never tried chiropractic joint manipulation in the past, or that none of your doctors refered you to one.  There is very little research on the effects of chiropractic on this congenital condition, however, the few case studies published show effectiveness.  Dangers would be if you had an underlying spinal cord tumor.  I'm assuming that you've had those kinds of underlying pathologies ruled out. I would suggest you find a good, hands-on chiropractor and give it a try.  See if you can find a DC that will combine the high velocity manipulation with some soft tissue techniques.  It may be helpful, and is quite safe to try.

'Good luck,

Dr. G