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Children's Physiotherapy

Torticollis in Children

Physiotherapy to improve head position, neck movement and support your child's development.

Physiotherapist supporting an infant during tummy time
Physiotherapist gently supporting a baby's head and neck position

What is Torticollis?

Torticollis, sometimes called wry neck, is a condition in which a child's head tilts to one side and may turn towards the opposite side. In infants, muscular torticollis can involve tightness of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle.

Common Signs

  • Head tilt to one side
  • Preference to look in one direction
  • Stiffness or limited neck movement
  • A small, firm muscle area on one side of the neck
  • Flattening on one area of the head (positional plagiocephaly)

Possible Causes

♧Position in the womb before birth
♙Birth-related muscle strain
〰Tightness of the neck muscle
?Sometimes no clear cause

How Physiotherapy Helps

↗Gentle, guided stretching when clinically appropriate
✣Improve comfortable neck movement and control
◎Encourage symmetrical head and body positioning
♧Support age-appropriate motor development
⌂Guide parents with safe positioning and home activities
Baby engaging in play during a physiotherapy session

Our Assessment

We assess head position, neck movement, muscle flexibility, head shape, symmetry and age-appropriate motor skills.

Why Early Assessment Matters

Early assessment can help identify movement restrictions and guide appropriate care. It may also help address positional preferences associated with head flattening.

Home Physiotherapy

Home visits are available for children, subject to location and appointment availability.

Home Visit Timings: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age can torticollis be treated?

Assessment can be considered as soon as a persistent head tilt or one-sided preference is noticed. A paediatrician or qualified clinician can guide the next steps.

How long does treatment take?

It varies with the child's age, severity, underlying cause and response to the treatment plan.

Can physiotherapy help torticollis?

Physiotherapy may improve neck movement, positioning and motor skills when muscular torticollis is confirmed.

Should I stretch my baby's neck at home?

Only follow exercises demonstrated by a qualified clinician. Never force or aggressively stretch a baby's neck.

Can torticollis affect head shape?

A persistent preference to look in one direction may be associated with positional flattening. Discuss any head-shape concern with your child's healthcare professional.

Book a Consultation

Concerned about your child's head tilt or neck movement? Contact Hayat Revive to discuss an assessment.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. A child's condition should be individually assessed. Seek prompt medical advice for sudden head tilt, pain, fever, injury or unusual symptoms.