Torticollis is a problem involving the muscles in the neck causing the head to tilt down. It is usually a tightening of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle in the neck and often found at 6-8 weeks after birth when a baby is starting to gain head control. The cause of torticollis is often unknown. A common theory is the baby’s position in the womb or trauma to the SCM during childbirth.

Treatment of torticollis can include:

  • Teaching parents about stretching the muscle
  • Positioning for feeding and sleeping
  • Tummy time for developing baby’s shoulder and neck strength

Occasionally the use of straps or a brace is needed to help stretch the muscle and maintain a neutral head position.

Our team can help your baby optimize their movement in the treatment of torticollis.