Aloha! As Hilo's only dedicated pediatric physical therapy clinic, Made to Move Pediatric Physical Therapy is committed to guiding parents through their child's developmental milestones. Today, we're shedding light on a common condition we often encounter: torticollis, sometimes referred to as "wry neck."
Torticollis Unveiled: What Is It and Why Does It Happen?
Simply put, torticollis is a tightness or shortening of the muscles in a baby's neck. This tightness can lead to a noticeable tilt of the head to one side, along with difficulty turning the head in both directions. It's a surprisingly prevalent condition among infants, but rest assured, it's usually very manageable with early intervention and appropriate care.
Several factors can contribute to the development of torticollis. In some cases, it arises from the baby's position in the womb, where certain positions can put added stress on the neck muscles. Other times, it can be linked to how a baby is held or positioned after birth.
Identifying Torticollis: What Should Parents Look For?
Recognizing the signs of torticollis is key to early intervention. Here are some common indicators to watch for in your baby:
Why Tummy Time Matters
Tummy time is crucial for babies, particularly those with torticollis. It encourages strengthening of the neck, shoulder, and trunk muscles, which are essential for motor development. Ensure your baby spends supervised time on their tummy multiple times a day to help alleviate the effects of torticollis and promote overall strength and coordination.
Potential Long-Term Effects if Untreated
If torticollis goes untreated, it can lead to more serious complications such as:
Empowering Solutions: How Made to Move Pediatric Physical Therapy Can Help
At Made to Move, we specialize in Pediatric Physical Therapy and have extensive experience in addressing torticollis. Our skilled therapists will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your baby's neck and movement patterns. We'll then develop a personalized treatment plan that typically includes gentle stretches and exercises designed to release tight muscles and strengthen weaker ones.
We believe in empowering parents to play an active role in their child's care. That's why we take the time to educate you on proper positioning techniques, carrying methods, and playful activities that encourage healthy head and neck movement.
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