Infant Torticollis and Plagiocephaly
What is Infant Torticollis and Plagiocephaly?
Torticollis is when your baby’s head starts tilting to one side or if they prefer to look one direction. Infant torticollis is usually diagnosed as being caused by tightened muscles on one side of the neck, which leaves your baby’s head at a tilt or rotation.
Torticollis in infants can be common —some studies report that it affects 3 in every 100 babies. Fortunately, in most cases infant torticollis is easily treatable.
Plagiocephaly, or ‘flat head’ syndrome, occurs when a flat spot develops on the back or side of a baby’s head. This can cause a baby’s head to look asymmetrical. This can often be treated with therapy and educating parents on how they can help their baby.
What happens in the appointment?
The assessment takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour and includes a history-taking, a physical assessment. Annika will implement appropriate stretches and demonstrate the various positions that will best benefit your child’s specific needs.
Annika will provide opportunities for you to practice these stretches so you can feel rest assured that you are providing the best care for your child’s progress when you get home.
Service Provided by:
Annika Gerl
MPT, BScKin
Book your appointment
Book your family appointment at North 49 Physical Therapy, to help address your baby’s neck and head problems. Contact us today for an appointement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if my baby has torticollis or plagiocephaly?
If your baby tilts their head or appears to have a flat spot, you should bring them in. One can make a big difference in the shape of a baby’s head and the tightness in their neck in the first year.
Will infant torticollis resolve in its own?
Infant torticollis can resolve on its own but knowing what positions and stretches to do can help resolve it quicker.
What causes infant torticollis and plagiocephaly?
Tightness in one or more of the neck muscles can cause torticollis which makes the baby favour a certain head position which can cause plagiocephaly.
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Phone: 306-343-7776
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