Posterior Sternoclavicular Joint Dislocation Presenting as Acute Torticollis in a Kabaddi Player: A Case Report.

INTRODUCTION

Torticollis is an abnormal head posture with a broad differential diagnosis. Posterior sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) dislocation is a rare and potentially life-threatening injury because of its proximity to the mediastinal structures. Torticollis as the presenting feature of posterior SCJ dislocation has not been previously described.

CASE REPORT: A 16-year-old male kabaddi player presented with acute right-sided torticollis and left upper limb pain 3 days after a tackle injury. Imaging confirmed a posterior left SCJ dislocation without vascular compromise. Closed reduction under general anesthesia using abduction-traction-extension under fluoroscopic guidance restored SCJ alignment and completely resolved the torticollis. The patient was immobilized and subsequently underwent gradual rehabilitation. At 6-week and 2-year follow-up, he had full, pain-free shoulder motion, no residual deformity, and had returned to sports.

CONCLUSION

Posterior SCJ dislocation can rarely present as acute torticollis, possibly because posterior clavicular displacement alters the mechanics of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. This case emphasizes early imaging, multidisciplinary planning, and cautious closed reduction in stable patients without vascular compromise.