Care for a Baby With Torticollis
Torticollis is caused by tight muscles on one side of the neck that make turning the head difficult, and sometimes cause the head to tilt towards the affected side. Infants typically have a version known as congenital muscular torticollis (CMT). CMT affects 2 percent of newborns and can result from a lack of space inutero, poor inutero positioning or low levels of amniotic fluid. Whatever the cause, proper care of a baby with torticollis is essential.
Instructions
1. Ask your doctor for a referral to a physical therapist immediately. Physical therapists guide you through appropriate and safe stretching exercises that are designed to stretch out the tight muscles.
2. Provide your baby with opportunities to turn her head in the opposite direction. For example, if your child has torticollis on the left side then encourage turning to the right.
3. Place a baby down to sleep then gently turn his head so the non-affected side is against the mattress.
4. Allow your baby to engage in playtime on her stomach whenever possible so the muscles on the back of the neck become stronger.
5. Monitor the shape of your child's head. Some babies with torticollis develop positional plagiocephaly, which is a flattened head on one side. If you notice your baby's head is flat on one side, consult with your doctor.
6. Expect a referral to an orthopedic surgeon from your physical therapist or pediatrician if your child's torticollis does not improve by the age of 18 months. Approximately 15 percent of cases require surgery.
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