Torticollis and Plagiocephaly

Does your child have torticollis or plagiocephaly?

Did you know that physical therapy can help with this?

Torticollis is the shortening of a neck muscle called your sternocleidomastoid (SCM). This can develop during birth or after. Often the shortening of SCM can lead to plagiocephaly which is the flattening of one side of the head.

At Shift Physical Therapy we understand how torticollis and plagiocephaly can negatively influence the development of how the child moves. We are devoted to providing one-to-one care with individualized treatment programs in a peaceful and supportive environment.

Common symptoms of torticollis include:

  • A child who always has their head rotated or tilted in the same direction

  • Inability to turn their head to one side

Common symptoms of plagiocephaly

  • Flattening on one side of the head

  • Bulging forehead

  • Ear pushed forward on one side of the head

How can physical therapy help?

At your first visit, your child will be evaluated by a physical therapist to test your child’s neck range of motion and evaluate any other conditions that often accompany torticollis. These may include:

  • plagiocephaly (abnormal head shape)

  • misalignment of the hip joint (hip dysplasia)

  • asymmetries in strength (always using the same leg to stand up, step up, etc.)

After the evaluation, you and the physical therapist will discuss the best treatment plan to help the child.

How soon can I start physical therapy?

The sooner the better! The sooner treatment is started the easier it is to manage. Even if infants who are unable to hold their head, these stretches and exercises can correct the problem quickly.

Treatment options vary by condition and may include:

  • Strengthening and stretching of the neck and shoulder

  • Soft tissue mobilization and trigger point release

  • Movement assessment to screen for asymmetries and strength imbalances

  • Home exercise program instruction delivered straight to your phone

  • Monitor progression of plagiocephaly

Are you needing a little more help?

Unsure if your child has torticollis or plagiocephaly? Schedule an appointment today with Shift Physical Therapy in St. George, UT.