Also referred to as wryneck, torticollis is a condition in which the head is tilted to one side. The top of the head usually tips one way, while the chin is pointed in the opposite direction. It may occur as a baby develops in the womb, a condition known as congenital muscular torticollis. It may also develop due to neck trauma or because of muscle and bone problems in the head or neck. The treatment for torticollis depends on its cause, but some exercises may help strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
Turning Exercises
A toddler with torticollis may have neck muscle spasms or difficulty turning the head to one side. According to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, you can practice head-turning exercises to help loosen some of the muscles in your toddler’s neck. Help your child lie on her back and place one hand on her affected shoulder. With your other hand on her head, gently turn her head in the opposite direction from which it normally tilts. Hold this stretch for 10 seconds and slowly release.
Playing
You can introduce exercises for torticollis while your toddler is playing. When playing on the floor with objects such as a ball or car, help her lie on her side that is opposite of the position in which her head tips. For example, if she has right-sided torticollis, allow her to play while lying on her left side to stretch the muscles and keep her hands midline with the rest of her body. You may also play with her while she lies on her tummy, keeping all toys to the opposite side so she can turn her head in the other direction.
Neck Stretching
You can practice stretching exercises with your toddler by spending some one-to-one time with him on the floor. To stretch the affected muscles, have him lie on his back and place one hand on his affected shoulder, with the other hand on top of his head. Gently pull his head toward the other shoulder, in the opposite direction from which his head normally tilts. Hold this stretch for 10 seconds and then release, repeating several times each day. Your toddler may become upset during stretches or he may cry; try to keep your body close to his and provide a soothing atmosphere.
Significance
Practicing exercises with your toddler can slowly help correct her torticollis over time. Consult your doctor or physical therapist for specific types of exercises you should be performing at home to ensure they will be helpful for your toddler’s condition. You can also help your toddler stretch her neck muscles during everyday activities. For example, if her torticollis causes her head to point to the left, try to hand her objects by turning her head and face toward the right. These movements help her use the affected neck muscles more frequently.
