Torticollis in babies (wry neck)
This is a mal-position of the neck whereby the head is side-bent in one direction and the chin is pointed towards the other. It often occurs due to irritation of the muscles that link the neck to the collar bone and ribs, or to the nerves that supply these muscles.
Strains from birth are often picked up when the child is 4-6 weeks old, when the parents notice awkward positioning of the head or development of a flat spot from the persistent pressure. The injury is often related to labour and delivery. Large babies with long and difficult deliveries are most at risk.
If unresolved, shortening of the muscle may occur and need to be surgically released. By assessing the child's reflexes and treating any signs of dysfunction early we can help pick up and treat this condition before the child suffers any great distress.
Click here to read a research article on osteopathy and asymmetries of the head and spine.
