What symptoms can you expect with cervical dystonia?

The most common signs of cervical dystonia include (and you may suffer some or all of these but the severity will vary in different individuals) the following:

Involuntary neck muscle contractions
Neck and shoulder pain and stiffness
Tremor involving head and neck, this may eventually cause some difficulties with writing
Limited range of movements: this may make it difficult for you to look over your shoulder while driving or during other activities; it can even make it difficult to perform simple tasks such as dressing, looking down at a book or computer screen
Symptoms tend to worsen after stress or specific tasks such as driving, writing or walking
Symptoms generally improve through relaxation or sleep

Individuals with cervical dystonia often say that they can find certain positions or ‘sensory tricks’ that may improve their condition e.g. temporary correction of head position achieved by touching your face, neck or head with your hand or an object, such as a pencil or eyeglasses.