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Protecting Accident Victims Throughout Western Pennsylvania.

Torticollis and medical professional negligence

On Behalf of | Jan 24, 2024 | Malpractice

Torticollis, commonly referred to as “wry neck,” is a condition characterized by the involuntary tilting or rotation of the head, which results in limited neck mobility.

While torticollis can be congenital or acquired, people should understand the impact of medical professional negligence on its development or misdiagnosis.

Understanding torticollis

Torticollis can occur due to various factors, including muscle spasms, neck injuries or abnormalities in the spine or neck muscles. It can also be present at birth, known as congenital torticollis, which is often caused by abnormal positioning in the womb. According to MedlinePlus, torticollis can occur at birth as a result of injuries to the neck muscles. In acquired torticollis, the condition may develop as a result of infections, tumors or damage to the nervous system.

In the context of torticollis, negligence can manifest in several ways. One aspect of managing torticollis is timely and accurate diagnosis. However, medical professionals may fail to recognize the symptoms or misattribute them to other conditions. This could lead to delayed diagnosis.

Incorrect treatment and surgical errors

Inadequate or incorrect treatment of torticollis can lead to complications. Medical professionals may prescribe inappropriate medications, overlook the need for physical therapy or surgery or fail to refer patients to specialists who can provide the necessary care. In cases where surgical intervention becomes necessary, medical professional negligence can occur during the procedure itself. Surgeons may make errors in judgment, fail to follow proper protocols or overlook critical details. This can result in worsening of the condition.

Torticollis can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, and proper diagnosis and treatment are necessary for effective management. Medical professional negligence can exacerbate the condition or lead to unnecessary suffering. By understanding the implications of negligence in torticollis cases, patients can hold medical professionals accountable for their actions.