Torticollis Treatment in Burlington
Do you have a baby with unexplained neck issues and generalized discomfort? If so, your baby may be experiencing torticollis, a condition characterized by tight neck muscles that cause the head to tilt and rotate in an abnormal position.
Fortunately, there are treatments available to help relieve these symptoms—but before starting any treatment plan, it’s important to understand what torticollis is and how it can affect your little one. Here’s what you need to know about torticollis treatment: causes, symptoms, ways to diagnose it, as well as non-invasive therapies.
What Is Torticollis?
Torticollis is a condition that causes the head and neck muscles to become tight or spasm. This can cause the head to tilt, rotate, and turn in an abnormal position—and can also lead to discomfort and difficulty moving the neck.
While torticollis can occur at any age, it’s most common in infants and typically develops shortly after birth. Some of the most common causes include intrauterine positioning issues, birth trauma, or neck muscle imbalances.
What Are The Torticollis Symptoms?
Some of the most common torticollis symptoms are an abnormal tilt or rotation of the head, difficulty turning the neck to one side, stiff muscles, and a decrease in range of motion. Your baby may also experience pain or discomfort when trying to turn their head one way or the other.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to speak with a pediatric physiotherapist right away to have your baby evaluated. At Pillars of Wellness, we are dedicated to providing our Burlington community with top-tier torticollis treatment options.
How Is Torticollis Diagnosed?
If your baby is suspected to have torticollis, a doctor or a pediatric physiotherapist will perform an assessment of their condition. This may include examining the neck to observe the range of motion and strength, as well as checking for any signs of abnormalities.
In rare cases, imaging studies such as X-rays or ultrasounds may be used to confirm a diagnosis. Your doctor may also ask questions about your baby’s medical history, the birth process, and recent activity levels in order to better understand their condition.
All You Need To Know About Torticollis Treatment
Torticollis treatment aims to gradually stretch and strengthen the neck muscles, as well as improve the range of motion. Your doctor may recommend physiotherapy sessions or activities that encourage your baby to move their head in different directions.
Janna Marvyn, pediatric physiotherapist, will first assess your baby before providing torticollis treatment. Oftentimes, stretching and strenghtening are used to help relax the tight muscles. It's just one piece of the treatment.
In addition to physiotherapy, it’s important to encourage your baby to gain strength and mobility through a variety of activities. Incorporating tummy time, carrying them in different positions, and providing toys that require them to look up and down can all help improve their overall range of motion.
By combining therapies, your baby should start noticing a difference in their neck movement over time. With the right approach, they will be able to enjoy more comfortable movements and have fewer episodes of pain or discomfort.
What Are The Causes Of Torticollis?
Torticollis can be caused by a variety of factors, including intrauterine positioning issues, birth trauma, neck muscle imbalances and even neurological disorders.
Intrauterine positioning issues occur when the baby's position in the womb is not ideal for delivery and may cause tension or tightness in the neck muscles as they attempt to rotate in the birth canal.
Birth trauma can occur when excessive force is used during delivery, leading to neck strain or muscle imbalances. Neurological disorders that affect movement and posture can also be a factor in the development of torticollis. If that were the case, neuro-physiotherapy could also help.
Additionally, certain medications or illnesses such as meningitis may lead to an increased risk of developing torticollis.
It’s important to note that torticollis is usually not a cause for concern and can be successfully treated with physiotherapy, stretches and other exercises. However, if your baby shows signs of pain or discomfort or their condition does not improve with treatment, it’s important to speak to your doctor for further evaluation.
By understanding the causes, symptoms and torticollis treatment options, parents can ensure their baby gets the care they need to help make a full recovery. With the right approach, they can get back to enjoying life with improved comfort and mobility.
Once again, assessments are available for torticollis treatment in Burlington, if you live in the area.
In addition to physiotherapy, it’s important to keep in mind that torticollis can also be prevented. Monitoring your baby's neck position after birth, and ensuring adequate opportunities for them to turn their head left and right can help reduce the risk of developing the condition.
It’s also important to pay close attention to any signs or symptoms your baby may be displaying, such as tilting their head, refusing to move their neck or appearing uncomfortable when you try to move it. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to speak with your doctor right away in order to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
By understanding the causes, symptoms and treatments of torticollis, you can empower yourself and your baby to live a life free of pain and discomfort. With the right approach, they can enjoy improved mobility and comfort while moving through their day-to-day activities with ease.
With early diagnosis and treatment, your baby will be on the path to full recovery in no time!
Pillars of Wellness - Torticollis Treatment In Burlington
If you have any questions or wish to book a free consultation with our pediatric physiotherapist, contact us today at 905-637-4000.