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Babies with torticollis have an asymmetry in the posture of their neck where they typically tilt their head (ear toward shoulder) to one side and turn their head to the other side. The baby may prefer one or both of these positions the majority of the time during play and sleep. This is an indicator of tightness and weakness in their neck muscles. Early intervention is important: the sooner torticollis is treated, the better the outcome.
Babies spend the majority of time on their backs in the first week of life. This prevents the neck muscles from being stretched out like they are when babies are on their bellies. Torticollis is very common, and there are two types:
Both types are treatable, and parents can often prevent the development of acquired torticollis. Other factors may lead to torticollis, including;
If your baby has torticollis, you may notice:
Mercy Kids Therapy Services offers treatment programs to treat babies with torticollis, including: