The Grisel Syndrome: early interdisciplinary treatment needed to prevent severe upper cervical deformity - Experience from a high-volume spine center and systematic review of existing literature

GS and OAARD are underrecognized and often diagnosed late, causing irreversible deformity and permanent loss of upper cervical spine mobility. Painful torticollis following upper respiratory tract infection, otorhinolaryngological surgery, or minor trauma should be treated as GS until proven otherwise. Early recognition and interdisciplinary treatment are crucial to prevent progression and avoid invasive surgical interventions.