The use of subjective endpoints such as VAS pain scales in studies of acupuncture for chronic neck pain has resulted in equivocal results. This study introduces an objective parameter as the primary endpoint for the assessment of acupuncture in patients with acute torticollis (stiff neck). Eighteen patients underwent a single 20-min treatment session, with needling of two acupuncture points Hou Hsi (SI 3) and Luo Zhen (M-UE 24) on the side ipsilateral to the predominantly involved side of the neck. By measuring the angle of lateral head rotation using a simple compass and protractor, a mean improvement of 52.9% was found, more so among those presenting earlier (<24 h) as opposed to later (>72 h).