Episodes of twiching and acute neck pain

Dear Ask The Doctor: I sometimes get a really powerFul twitch in my right hand side of my neck followed instantly by a sharp stabbing pain in the front right side of my brain but have no idea what it is or could have caused it I have never had whip lash and do wear glasses. Could you tell me what it might be please

Dear Nathan: Bending or twisting your neck too far can lead to acute torticollis. This condition appears with few symptoms, although often you will appear uncomfortable and will hold your head straight or rotated to one side. It will hurt to move your head to the opposite side. Your neck muscles on the side that hurts often are tender to the touch. In general, acute torticollis is not life threatening. If symptoms are limited to muscle stiffness and pain, see your doctor in at least a day. Treatment for torticollis is aimed  to relax the contracted neck muscles involved. You may use ice alternating with moist warm compresses applied on the neck, and take anti-inflammatory medication for the pain (Motrin, Aleve). In most people, torticollis resolves in several days to a few weeks. A few people will develop continuing neck problems for months to years. Persistent neck muscle spasms may require referral to a specialist (neurologist).