What is Torticollis?

Torticollis is when a child will have a preference to tip their head one way and rotate it the other way. It is a condition that is caused by a tightening of the neck muscle and is usually related to the child’s position in utero.

Torticollis is often associated with other diagnoses such as plagiocephaly, which is a flat spot on the back of a child’s head, or it can be in combination with feeding difficulties. Torticollis can also be related to trunk tightness causing a child to want to rotate the hips one way and their shoulders in the opposite direction.

How do you treat Torticollis?

There are several ways to treat torticollis, including myofascial release, stretching, strengthening and improving body awareness. Other treatments may include a referral to other providers such as an orthotist, a head shaping eval, or a feeding therapist.

Early referral and intervention are best. Please watch the video below for ways you can screen your child.

If you have concerns about your baby having torticollis, contact your primary care physician and ask for a referral to physical therapy. If you need help establishing a primary care physician please call us at (217)222-6550.

Sam Wilson is a Pediatric Therapist at Quincy Medical Group.