What is Torticollis?
Torticollis (sometimes called wry neck) is a condition in which a tight or shortened muscle on one side of the neck causes the head to tilt or turn consistently to one side. The muscle most commonly involved is the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), which runs from the base of the skull down to the collarbone. When a baby always rests their head in the same position, the same part of the skull bears the majority of the pressure — and a flat spot can develop or worsen.
What Causes Torticollis?
- Position in the womb — limited space towards the end of pregnancy can compress or shorten the SCM muscle
- Birth-related factors — particularly in longer or more difficult births, the SCM can be stretched or injured
- Abnormal muscle development — occasionally the SCM develops asymmetrically without a clear mechanical cause
Signs of Torticollis
Signs often become clearer around 6–8 weeks of age as your baby gains more head control. Look out for:
- A consistent preference for turning the head to one side
- Difficulty or reluctance to turn the head the other way
- Head tilting to one side whilst the chin points in the opposite direction
- A small, firm lump in the side of the neck in some cases
Torticollis responds well to treatment when caught early. If you notice any of these signs, it is worth having your baby assessed by a specialist.
Treatment
Torticollis is typically treated with gentle stretching exercises and physiotherapy or manipulation, carried out by a specialist paediatric physiotherapist, chiropractor, or cranial osteopath. The exercises can usually be continued at home between appointments. It is important to treat torticollis alongside any flat head syndrome management — untreated neck tightness can limit the effectiveness of both repositioning and helmet therapy. We are happy to advise on finding appropriate local specialist support.
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Phone: 023 8000 5505 • Email: admin@hampshire-orthotics.co.uk
East Gate Lodge, Embley Park, Romsey, SO51 6ZB