Spasmodic torticollis is characterized by which condition?

Spasmodic torticollis, also known as cervical dystonia, is primarily characterized by painful contractions of the neck muscles, which can lead to involuntary tilting or turning of the head. This condition results from abnormal muscle contractions that can cause discomfort and difficulty in head movement. The pain associated with these contractions can vary in intensity and can lead to additional symptoms such as muscle fatigue and tension in the neck area.

This choice accurately describes the hallmark feature of spasmodic torticollis, distinguishing it from other conditions that may involve involuntary muscle movements or contractions in different parts of the body, such as the face or eyelids. For instance, myoclonic contractions primarily affect the limbs or facial muscles, but do not pertain to the sustained neck muscle contractions seen in spasmodic torticollis. Similarly, painful eyelid contractions relate more to blepharospasm rather than to neck muscle issues. The severe facial stabbing pain mentioned could relate to other neurological conditions like trigeminal neuralgia, which is not connected to the neck muscle contractions characteristic of spasmodic torticollis.