Torticollis
Torticollis, also referred colloquially to as "wryneck" or "twisted neck," is a rare medical condition characterized by the contraction of muscles causing the head to twist to one side.
There are two main types of torticollis:
Congenital Torticollis: Is present at birth and is usually caused by tightness or shortening of the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM), which runs from behind the ear to the collarbone. Congenital Torticollis typically results from abnormal positioning of the baby in the uterus or from birth trauma.
Acquired Torticollis: Develops post-birth and can have various causes, such as injury, infection, muscle spasm or neck pain.
The symptoms of torticollis include the head tilting to one side while the chin points to the opposite side, limited range of motion in the neck, neck muscle stiffness or tenderness, and pain or discomfort in the neck.
Torticollis can potentially impact the way you breastfeed.
As mentioned previously, congenital torticollis is most often caused by tightness or shortening of the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM). The restriction of the SCM can make it hard for infants with torticollis to turn their head to one side or tilt it appropriately, creating a challenge for a mother hoping to have her infant latch onto the breast properly and consequently affecting their ability to effectively suckle and obtain enough milk.
Torticollis and plagiocephaly are connected through their impact on an infant's posture and development.
Plagiocephaly is characterized by a flat spot on one side or the entire back of an infant's head.
When a child suffers from plagiocephaly, they can have a tendency to favor that spot while they sleep. Over time, this preference can lead to muscle tightness and open the door for that child to develop torticollis.
Depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition, torticollis can be treated.
Myofascial release is a therapeutic technique used to treat muscle pain and tightness by releasing tension in the fascia (the connective tissue surrounding muscles, bones, and organs throughout the body) to restore balance and flexibility to the affected area.
When approaching myofascial release with an infant, one should practice caution and preferably work under the guidance of a healthcare professional, such as a pediatric physical therapist or a pediatrician familiar with infant musculoskeletal issues.
There are different approaches to myofascial release, including direct techniques (applying pressure directly on the restricted area) and indirect techniques (applying gentle stretch or traction away from the restricted area).
Your infant will benefit from a gentle touch. Always prioritize the safety and comfort of your baby when attempting to relieve them of their pain.
It's crucial to have a thorough assessment by a healthcare professional to determine the appropriateness of myofascial release for an infant. They can provide individualized recommendations and ensure that techniques are applied safely and effectively.
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