Neck Discomfort in Infants: Torticollis

Torticollis is a condition that may cause mild neck discomfort in infants and affects approximately 2% of newborns. It can also occur in adults but when it is present in infants it is referred to as Congenital Muscular Torticollis. There is no way to prevent this condition, it is a result of the position of the baby in-utero, too little amniotic fluid, trauma at birth or lack of space while in-utero. An infant suffering with CMT will exhibit symptoms that include the head and neck tilted to one side. Although it looks uncomfortable, torticollis produces no severe pain. Generally, torticollis will not be noticed immediately as a newborn will have a typically wobbly head. Within the first week to the first few months, however, the condition will become more noticeable and will be diagnosed by a pediatrician.

Treatment

It is imperative that an infant exhibiting the symptoms of torticollis be given treatment as soon as possible. If left untreated, torticollis may become a permanent issue. Chiropractic care and physical therapy work well to reverse the muscular dysfunction. Stretching exercises will help to lengthen the tight muscles of the neck. Other exercises will be required daily to be done at home throughout the day to help an infant with increasing head and neck mobility and range of motion. Having the infant turn their head from side to side is also necessary to help reduce stiffness of the neck. Tummy time is also helpful in getting the baby to strengthen the neck and back muscles. If diagnosed early and if exercises are done daily, improvement will be seen within a few weeks and the condition may be fully resolved within one year.

References Cited in this Article

www.babycenter.com

www.torticolliskids.org