Torticollis Treatment in Monroe, West Monroe, & Ruston, LA
Torticollis happens when tight neck muscles cause a baby’s head to tilt or turn to one side, which can affect balance, coordination, and comfort if left unaddressed. Building Futures Pediatric Therapy offers physical and occupational therapy at clinics in Monroe, West Monroe, and Ruston, LA, to help babies build neck strength and flexibility through simple, play-based sessions.
If your child’s head seems to be constantly tilted to one side, they may have torticollis. While this isn’t necessarily a painful condition, it can impact your child’s development and overall quality of life. Keep reading to learn more about what torticollis is, why it should be treated, and how pediatric physical therapy can help.
What Is Torticollis?
Torticollis is a condition where the neck muscles cause the head to tilt or turn to one side. It’s a common condition in babies and young children that often happens due to tight or short neck muscles restricting head movement. While we aren’t sure why some children develop short neck muscles, we do know that there are two types of torticollis:
- Congenital torticollis, which is the most common type and occurs from birth.
- Acquired torticollis, which is less common and usually develops between 4-6 months old (but can also occur later).
Signs and Symptoms of Torticollis
The most common signs or symptoms of torticollis include:
- Tilted or rotated head position
- Difficulty turning the head in both directions
- One shoulder is higher than the other
- Uneven facial features
- Stiffness or tension in neck muscles
- Swelling in the neck muscles
What Happens if Torticollis Isn’t Treated?
Untreated torticollis can lead to long-term consequences for your child’s development and their overall wellbeing. While this condition may not be painful, it is uncomfortable, and your child relies on their sight and head position to learn important skills like balance and coordination. With their head tilted to one side, they will struggle to gain those developmental skills. This can impact their overall growth and confidence as they get older.
How Physical Therapy Treats Torticollis
Pediatric physical therapy is a proven approach to treating torticollis. Our skilled therapists at Building Futures use a variety of proven techniques to address muscle tightness, improve flexibility, and enhance your child’s overall neck function. We help your child through simple exercises, stretches, and activities that reduce the stiffness in their neck muscles and build their strength. Through play-based therapy, we make the treatment engaging and enjoyable for your child.
How Can I Prevent Torticollis in My Child?
There is no known way to prevent torticollis, but early intervention can help correct this condition fast so your child can enjoy playing and exploring. One tip that may be helpful in reducing the risk of torticollis is to ensure your baby gets plenty of tummy time to build strength in their neck and shoulder muscles.
Free Developmental Screening
If you’re concerned about your child’s development, you can take advantage of our free online developmental screening. This tool is a convenient way for parents to know with certainty if your child is achieving their developmental milestones or if they need extra support to achieve their brightest future.
FreQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are signs of torticollis in a baby?
A baby with torticollis may prefer turning the head one way, tilt the head to one side, have trouble feeding on one side or develop a flat spot on the head from staying in the same position.
Can torticollis affect development?
Yes. If a baby has trouble turning the head both ways, it can affect tummy time, rolling, reaching, feeding and how they explore their world. Early therapy helps babies move more freely.
How does physical therapy help torticollis?
Physical therapy uses gentle stretches, positioning, strengthening and play-based activities to help your baby turn, look, reach and move both ways more comfortably.
Will stretches hurt my baby?
They should not be painful. Your therapist will show you gentle ways to support movement and will adjust activities based on your baby’s comfort.
What can I do at home between visits?
Your therapist may show you tummy time ideas, feeding positions, carrying tips and ways to encourage your baby to look both directions during play. Small changes throughout the day can make a real difference.