Treatment Options For Torticollis

Physical Therapy And Chiropractic Care

Physical therapy and chiropractic care can benefit torticollis patients by stretching and lengthening their tight neck muscles. These therapies typically include active and passive stretching, massage, ultrasound, and acupuncture. Physical therapy is particularly important immediately after a torticollis diagnosis. For infants, parents will be shown a series of stretching exercises to perform on their child and advised as to how often to complete them. Regular follow-ups with the physical therapist are recommended to monitor progress and adapt the stretching exercises as the patient's needs change.

Chiropractic care can involve hands-on manipulation of the neck. This particular treatment is not recommended for children, and it should be used with caution in individuals who are frail or at risk of a stroke, including patients with diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic medical conditions. Both physical therapists and chiropractors recommend parents encourage their children to stretch as much as possible in the home environment. For infants, healthcare professionals recommend placing them on their tummies a lot so they have to turn to look at objects.

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