Final answer:
Botulinum toxin injections, commonly known as Botox, are the primary treatment for cervical dystonia, offering temporary relief from the condition's involuntary muscle contractions and associated pain.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cervical dystonia, also known as spasmodic torticollis, is a distressing condition that can lead to painful and involuntary contractions of the neck muscles, causing abnormal movements and postures of the head. The primary treatment that has shown significant benefits in reducing the symptoms of this condition is botulinum toxin injections. This treatment involves the injection of botulinum toxin, also known by the brand name Botox, into the afflicted muscles. Used in small, controlled doses, this neurotoxin can temporarily relax the muscles and alleviate the excessive muscle contractions associated with cervical dystonia. Despite botulinum toxin's reputation for cosmetic uses, its application in treating muscular disorders has been pivotal. The treatment is not permanent, and patients typically need to receive injections every three to four months to maintain symptom relief. Noteworthy is the fact that, aside from treating cervical dystonia, botulinum toxin is also used to manage various conditions involving muscular dysfunctions, such as strabismus, eye twitches, cerebral palsy, and overactive bladder.