Spasmodic torticollis

This code represents a focal dystonia characterized by involuntary, sustained muscle contractions in the neck, causing the head to twist, tilt, or jerk abnormally. It is a neurological movement disorder affecting the sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, and other cervical muscles.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of spasmodic torticollis, also known as cervical dystonia. This diagnosis is typically made based on clinical presentation of involuntary neck movements and sustained abnormal head postures.

• Carefully review documentation to differentiate spasmodic torticollis from other forms of torticollis listed in the Excludes1 notes.
• Ensure the provider's notes specify "spasmodic" or "cervical dystonia" to support this specific code.
• Do not use this code for congenital, psychogenic, or traumatic forms of torticollis, as these have distinct codes.