10 Lockjaw Symptoms
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
Symptom #10: Opisthotonos
Opisthotonos, or as it is commonly known as the “bending of the neck”, is a characteristic and pathognomonic symptom of this bacterial infection. Muscle spasms affecting the neck and back will lead to an involuntary bending of the back backward in a bridging position. Sometimes, the muscle spasms are so severe that compression fractures could occur in the spine.
Prognosis in cases when opisthotonus develops is not good. Adequate prevention of tetanus through vaccination is fundamental, but early diagnosis and treatment when tetanus is suspected is also very important. The earlier the symptoms appear after the infection, the more severe they tend to be.
Advertisement
