Torticollis: How To Spot And Manage It

As a parent who has navigated the challenges of torticollis with my own baby, I know firsthand how daunting it can be to understand and manage this condition. Torticollis, often referred to as "twisted neck," is a condition where an infant's head persistently tilts to one side. This common yet frequently overlooked issue is a primary cause of head flattening (plagiocephaly) in babies. Early detection and intervention are crucial to managing torticollis effectively and preventing further complications. In this article, I'll share my journey and insights into what torticollis is, how it leads to head flattening, and how parents can identify and address this condition at home.

What is Torticollis?

Torticollis occurs when the neck muscles become tight or shortened, causing the head to tilt to one side while the chin points to the opposite shoulder. This condition can develop in utero or during the early weeks of life due to various factors, including:

• Positioning in the womb: Limited space in the womb can cause a baby to be positioned in a way that leads to muscle tightness.
• Birth trauma: Difficult or assisted deliveries can result in muscle strain or injury.
• Sleeping positions: Consistently sleeping with the head turned to one side can exacerbate the condition.

How Torticollis Leads to Head Flattening

When a baby has torticollis, the persistent tilt of the head places uneven pressure on one side of the skull. Contrary to popular belief, this process has nothing to do with having a 'soft' head or malleable bones. It is exclusively the result of growth displacement around a point of contact. As shown below, this uneven pressure can cause the head to flatten on the side that rests against the mattress, leading to plagiocephaly.

Spotting Torticollis at Home

Parents play a vital role in identifying the signs of torticollis early. Here are some key indicators to watch for:

1. Head Tilt: Notice if your baby's head consistently tilts to one side.
2. Limited Neck Movement: Observe if your baby has difficulty turning their head fully from side to side.
3. Preference for One Side: Check if your baby prefers looking in one direction or always sleeps with their head turned to the same side.
4. Flat Spot: Look for any flattening on one side of the head, which may be more noticeable as your baby grows.

Visual example of Torticollis in a Baby

Managing Torticollis

If you suspect your baby has torticollis, early intervention often involves:

1. Physiotherapy: A Paediatric Physiotherapist can provide exercises to stretch and strengthen the neck muscles.
2. Use Perfect Noggin: This head shaping mattress helps maintain a normal head shape and provides optimal ergonomic alignment of the head, neck, and torso.

Torticollis is a manageable condition, but early detection and intervention are crucial to preventing head flattening. By understanding the signs of torticollis and monitoring your baby’s head and neck movement at home, you can take proactive steps to ensure their healthy development. If you suspect torticollis, consider using the Perfect Noggin as soon as possible.

From one parent to another, I hope this information empowers you to take proactive steps for your baby's health and well-being.