Torticollis (head tilt to one side) may be present in infants for many different reasons. It may be caused by your baby’s position in utero, a bone deformity, a nodule on the muscle, or difficulties during delivery.  Typically, torticollis responds extremely well to physiotherapy.

If you suspect that your baby prefers their head rotated to one side, it is important that your baby is seen by a physiotherapist as soon as possible.  Any head tilt is easier to correct in a younger infant who hasn’t developed strong habits yet, and the position of the head influences vision and movement in the rest of the body as your baby develops.  We are used to seeing infants as young as newborns.

The paediatric physiotherapists at Action Potential Rehabilitation have specialized training in treating babies with Torticollis and muscle imbalance.  They are able to recognize and measure head tilt and rotation, and to provide support, exercises, and suggestions.

Many infants who have Torticollis also have Plagiocephaly, or flattening at the back of the head.  Your physiotherapist can measure and monitor flatness and make recommendations for positioning and activities to reduce this as much as possible.  Occasionally, helmets or referrals to other specialists are recommended and can be facilitated by your physiotherapist.