Torticollis, also known as “wry neck,” is a condition that affects the neck muscles, leading to a twisted or tilted head position. For children, particularly infants, torticollis can arise due to various causes, ranging from positioning in the womb to post-birth muscle stiffness. Detecting torticollis early is vital for effective treatment, which may involve exercises, gentle stretching, and, in some cases, chiropractic care.
In this blog, we’ll explore what torticollis is, why it occurs, and how to detect it in your child, followed by available treatments, including chiropractic care and supportive measures for parents.
What is Torticollis?
Torticollis is a condition where the neck muscles become tight, making the head tilt to one side while the chin points to the opposite shoulder. This abnormal positioning is typically due to a shortening of the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) in the neck. While torticollis can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired, congenital torticollis is more common in infants and can often be addressed effectively if detected and treated early.
Types of Torticollis
Congenital Muscular Torticollis: The most common form of torticollis in infants, congenital muscular torticollis, is often noticed in the first few weeks or months of life. It occurs when the SCM muscle tightens, possibly due to the baby’s position in the womb, limited space, or birth trauma.
Acquired Torticollis: Although rare in infants, acquired torticollis can develop later in childhood. Causes can include trauma, infection, or even reaction to certain medications. This type of torticollis often requires a medical evaluation to determine underlying causes.
The Role of the Sternocleidomastoid Muscle (SCM)
The SCM is a muscle located on both sides of the neck, extending from the back of the head to the collarbone and breastbone. This muscle is crucial for head rotation, tilting, and movement. When the SCM on one side of the neck becomes tight or shortened, it can lead to a characteristic tilt and limited neck movement, creating the appearance of torticollis.
What Causes Torticollis in Children?
Torticollis in children can be caused by various factors, and understanding these can help parents grasp the condition better. Here are some common causes:
- Positioning in the Womb: Limited space or the baby’s positioning in the later stages of pregnancy can lead to neck stiffness or muscle imbalance.
- Birth Trauma: The neck muscles can sometimes sustain strain during childbirth, especially if the delivery was difficult or required assistance with forceps or vacuum extraction.
- Limited Tummy Time: Infants who don’t spend enough time on their stomachs may have weaker neck muscles, potentially contributing to muscle imbalances.
- Other Factors: Rarely, underlying conditions like bone malformations or infections can lead to torticollis. In these cases, further diagnostic evaluations are required.
How to Detect Torticollis in Your Child
Detecting torticollis in infants as early as possible allows for quicker intervention and better outcomes. Here are the common signs to watch for:
1. Head Tilt and Limited Movement
The most noticeable sign of torticollis is a persistent head tilt. A baby with torticollis may seem to favor turning their head to one side or may tilt their head in one direction most of the time. If you try to gently turn your baby’s head, you may notice stiffness or resistance.
2. Flattening on One Side of the Head (Positional Plagiocephaly)
Babies with torticollis may develop flat spots on one side of their head due to constantly resting in the same position. This condition, known as positional plagiocephaly, occurs because a baby’s skull is still soft and can become misshapen over time if they lie in the same position frequently.
3. Preference for One Side When Feeding
You might notice that your baby has difficulty turning their head in one direction when breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. They may favor one side, resisting efforts to turn toward the other breast or bottle, indicating neck stiffness or discomfort.
4. Limited Neck Mobility
If you observe that your child has difficulty moving their head fully in both directions or struggles to follow movement with their eyes, torticollis may be a possible reason. You can test this by holding a toy in front of your child and slowly moving it from side to side, checking if they can comfortably follow it.
5. Tenderness or Small Lump in the Neck
In some cases of congenital torticollis, a small, firm lump or “knot” may be noticeable in the neck muscle on one side. This is a result of the muscle thickening and is often harmless but should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Diagnosis of Torticollis
If you notice any of the above signs, a consultation with a healthcare provider, such as a pediatrician or chiropractor, can confirm whether your child has torticollis. During the examination, the provider will evaluate your child’s range of motion, muscle tone, and head positioning. Sometimes, imaging studies, like an ultrasound or X-ray, may be recommended to assess muscle structure and rule out other conditions.
Treatment Options for Torticollis
The good news is that with early intervention, torticollis can be effectively managed. Here are some common treatment approaches:
1. Stretching Exercises
One of the most effective treatments for torticollis in infants involves gentle stretching exercises to improve the range of motion and gradually lengthen the affected SCM muscle. Healthcare professionals can teach parents specific techniques for stretching and strengthening the baby’s neck muscles at home.
2. Tummy Time
Encouraging tummy time several times a day can help strengthen your baby’s neck and shoulder muscles. By allowing the baby to lie on their stomach, you promote active muscle engagement and help alleviate the muscle imbalances caused by torticollis.
3. Positional Adjustments
Changing your baby’s sleeping and feeding positions can encourage them to turn their head in both directions. Positioning toys or mirrors on the side that your baby tends to avoid can also help stimulate neck movement.
4. Chiropractic Care
For parents looking for a non-invasive, supportive approach to treat torticollis, chiropractic care can be an effective option. Chiropractors use gentle techniques to address muscle imbalances and improve joint function. They may also offer guidance on safe and effective stretches to perform at home.
At Herron Family Chiropractic, we take a personalized approach to care, ensuring that any adjustments or treatments for infants are safe, gentle, and specifically tailored to your child’s needs.
5. Physical Therapy
Some cases may benefit from physical therapy sessions where a trained therapist works with the child to perform guided exercises that target muscle strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
Preventive Measures and Home Tips for Parents
While torticollis can’t always be prevented, there are steps parents can take to encourage healthy neck development in infants:
- Encourage Balanced Head Positioning: When your baby is sleeping or resting, alternate the direction they face to avoid flat spots and encourage neck strength.
- Increase Tummy Time: Regularly placing your baby on their stomach helps develop neck, shoulder, and back muscles, which can counteract the effects of torticollis.
- Engage with Your Baby: Talk, sing, or place toys on both sides of your baby to encourage even head rotation and movement.
- Monitor for Early Signs: Staying attentive to the signs of torticollis, as discussed above, can help you catch it early.
When to See a Chiropractor
If you’re concerned about your child’s neck positioning or have observed any signs of torticollis, consider consulting a pediatric chiropractor for an evaluation. Chiropractors are skilled in assessing musculoskeletal conditions and can work alongside other healthcare providers to ensure your child receives comprehensive, holistic care.
At Herron Family Chiropractic in Cobourg, we offer safe and gentle chiropractic solutions designed to support your child’s development and well-being. Our approach includes a thorough assessment of your child’s needs, personalized treatment plans, and a commitment to providing information and support to parents.
Final Thoughts
Torticollis is a treatable condition, and with early detection, most children can achieve full neck mobility and symmetrical development. Parents play an essential role in recognizing the early signs, and treatments like chiropractic care, physical therapy, and at-home stretching can make a world of difference. At Herron Family Chiropractic, we are here to support you and your child through every stage of their journey toward better health.
If you suspect your child has torticollis or have questions about how chiropractic care can support your child’s development, feel free to reach out to Herron Family Chiropractic in Cobourg, ON. Early intervention can pave the way for your child’s healthy growth and development, empowering them to move and explore their world without restriction.