What is Torticollis?

Congenital torticollis is a condition caused by a shortening of a neck muscle, usually the sternocleidomastoid (SCM). Babies with torticollis have a hard time turning their head one way, and their head may appear tipped to one side. Torticollis can be caused by many things such as: position in the womb and birth trauma (such as use of vacuum or forceps during delivery).

How do I know if my baby has torticollis?

Babies with torticollis usually have their heads tipped to one side and turned to the opposite side. You may also feel a lump in the muscle that runs from your baby’s neck to behind their ear. Your baby may also only look one way or have difficulty feeding on one side.

How can physiotherapy help?

A physiotherapist can give you specific exercises to complete at home to help correct the torticollis. If left untreated, torticollis can contribute to plagiocephaly or ‘baby flat head’.

Can adults have torticollis?

Yes! In adults, torticollis is often called ‘wry-neck’ and is characterized by the head tilting to only one side. Adult torticollis can come on suddenly or over a period of time. Physiotherapists can also help treat adult torticollis using a variety of techniques including manual therapy, acupuncture, dry needling and exercises.

I think my baby might have torticollis.

Our pediatric physiotherapist can assess your child and provide you with a home program to help correct your child’s torticollis.

Call Perfect Balance at 02-441 3316 or email us at contact@perfectbalance.ae.