Pediatrics > Torticollis
Torticollis
Get a head start on identification, treatment, and prevention
Definition: True Torticollis is defined as shortening of the
sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) on one side of the neck. This results
in the head being tilted to one side and rotated to the other side.
There may also be associated tightness of the upper back/shoulder muscles,
spinal abnormality, facial asymmetry, and/or hip dysplasia. Torticollis
may be evident at birth and can be either congenital or positional.
Treatments are most effective when rendered early on, two to three months
of age.
When should I contact a Pediatric Physical Therapist?
- If your child prefers to keep his/her head turned to one side
- If your child's head is always tilted
- If your child has flattening on one side of the head or on the back of the head
- If your child's eyes or ears are not quite level
- If your child does not seem to be acquiring age appropriate gross motor skills (such as turning the head to both sides to look at toys, pulling to sit, or rolling)
What will Physical Therapy do to help my child?
- Teach you how to position your child to improve head position
- Teach you how to stretch your child's neck muscles, safely
- Teach you exercises to help strengthen weakened muscles
- Provide hands-on techniques to improve range of motion, posture, and movement
- Use handling-techniques to facilitate postural responses and age appropriate motor skill acquisition
- Provide a home program to assure carryover
- May recommend a collar or helmet to improve neck position or head shape
- May use kinesiotaping to facilitate active head movements
How do I go about getting Physical Therapy for my child?
- Ask your pediatrician/doctor about a referral to Physical Therapy
- Call your insurance carrier or refer to your insurance book
- Call us directly, with direct access in NJ, you can see a physical therapist without a prescription from the doctor.
