Anyone who has ever had a baby knows that they can be a handful. Between the constant feedings, changings, and trying to get them to sleep, it’s no wonder new moms are exhausted.
One common problem that can occur in infants is torticollis, which is when the neck muscles are tight and cause the head to tilt to one side. While there are treatments available for torticollis, chiropractic care may be able to help as well. Here we will look at how chiropractic care can help treat torticollis in babies.
What is torticollis?
Torticollis, also known as a wry neck, is a condition that results in the tightening of the neck muscles. This can cause the head to tilt to one side and sometimes even rotate. Torticollis is most common in infants, but it can affect people of all ages.
what are the symptoms of this condition?
The most common symptom of torticollis is the tilting of the head to one side. The head may also rotate so that the chin points to the shoulder on the same side. In some cases, the head can be tilted so far that it rests on the shoulder.
Other symptoms may include:
- Neck pain
- Stiffness in the neck
- Difficulty moving the head from side to side
- Decreased range of motion in the neck
- Unusual positioning of the arms or hands, such as one arm held out to the side or both arms held tightly against the body.
What causes torticollis?
There are a few different things that can cause torticollis, but the most common is congenital muscular torticollis (CMT). CMT occurs when the sternocleidomastoid muscle, which runs from behind the ear to the breastbone, is shortened or tightened. This can happen before or during birth.
How chiropractic care can help relieve the symptoms of torticollis?
Chiropractic care can help to relieve the symptoms of torticollis by gently stretching and manipulating the muscles and joints of the neck. This can help to loosen the muscles and provide relief from pain and discomfort.
In some cases, chiropractors may also recommend exercises or other treatments to help stretch the muscles and improve range of motion.
If you’re looking for relief from torticollis, I suggest, Pillars of Wellness. They have a top-rated pediatric chiropractor in Burlington. It may be able to help. Be sure to talk to your doctor or chiropractor about what treatment options are best for you or your child.
The benefits of chiropractic care for torticollis patients
Chiropractic care can offer a number of benefits for those suffering from torticollis, including:
- Relief from pain and discomfort
- Improved range of motion in the neck
- Reduced stiffness in the neck muscles
- Improved overall function of the musculoskeletal system.
What to expect during a chiropractic session for torticollis relief?
During your first chiropractic session for torticollis relief, the chiropractor will take a complete medical history and perform a physical examination. They will then develop a treatment plan that is specific to your needs.
The treatments used will vary depending on the severity of your condition, but may include:
- Manual manipulation of the neck
- Trigger point therapy
- Manual therapy
- Exercises and stretches
- Ice or heat therapy
After your first session, the chiropractor will likely recommend that you return for one or two more sessions. The number of sessions needed will depend on your individual condition and response to treatment.
Torticollis patient case studies – How chiropractic care has helped them overcome this condition?
One study looked at a group of infants with congenital torticollis who were treated with chiropractic care. The study found that after eight weeks of treatment, the infants had significantly improved range of motion and decreased muscle stiffness compared to those who did not receive chiropractic care.
Another study looked at a group of adults with torticollis who were treated with manual therapy and exercises. The study found that after eight weeks, the patients had significantly improved range of motion, decreased pain, and improved quality of life compared to those who did not receive treatment.
If you or your child is suffering from torticollis, chiropractic care may be able to help. Be sure to talk to your doctor or chiropractor about what treatment options are best for you or your child.
