Congenital Torticollis: What is it and why does it happen

What is Congenital Torticollis/Twisted Neck/Wry Neck?

This is a condition in which a child is born with tightness, inflammation or injury to one of their Sternocleidomastoid Muscles. This muscle spans from behind the ear down to the collar bone and sternum. When a child is born with this condition their head usually remains tilted to one side and turned to the opposite side.

Why does it happen?

Congenital torticollis can be caused by many issues. For instance, if there was crowding in the uterus and the baby was in a position where the head was tilted in utero could result in congenital torticollis. Forceps or suction delivery puts a strain on the SCM muscle and can cause injury and lead to the head tilt. If the baby was in breech position, delivery becomes difficult and can cause torticollis. Lastly, torticollis can be a symptom of an underlying condition, which is why it is always important to have your child checked and diagnosed before attempting any home therapies.

What are the effects of torticollis on my child?

The most common condition that coincides with torticollis is Plagiocephaly. This is a condition in which the child is always sleeping/laying on one side of the head (because of the persistent head tilt), resulting in the formation of a flat spot in the skull. Children’s skull bones are not fused when they are born and are therefore mobile. Usually this flat spot can be corrected through manual therapies, since these skull bones are still mobile. Treatment is most effective before the bones fuse (12-18 months old).

Another associated condition is vision disturbances. Because of the head tilt, the child’s vision is not allowed to develop in synchronization due to the change in symmetry when comparing the right and left eyes. Most often, head tilts are remedied before this becomes an issue or the head tilt may not be severe enough to warrant any changes in vision.

For more information check out the more in depth version of this article: Congenital Torticollis (Part 1): All about your child’s head tilt. Stay tuned for Part 2 of this article to find out what can be done at home to help your child with Congenital Torticollis.

Looking for a pediatric chiropractor in your area? Check out the ICPA’s directory.

Neha Shah, DC
Pediatric chiropractor St. Charles IL
White Oak Family Wellness
405 Illinois Avenue #2b
St. Charles, IL 60174
(630) 442-0057