Torticollis & Chiropractic in Hartford, SD
What Is Torticollis?
Torticollis is a condition where a baby's head tilts to one side due to tightness or shortening of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle in the neck. It may be congenital (present at birth) or develop in the early weeks of life.
You may notice your baby consistently turning their head to one side, resisting turning the other way, preferring one breast during feeding, or developing a flat spot on one side of the head (plagiocephaly).
Causes and Signs
Torticollis is often linked to positioning in the womb, birth trauma (especially during difficult or assisted deliveries), or prolonged time in one position after birth. The resulting muscle tension and cervical misalignment restrict your baby's range of motion.
Early signs parents notice include a persistent head tilt, difficulty turning to one side, fussiness during tummy time, uneven head shape, and preference for one side during feeding.
How Chiropractic Helps
We use gentle cervical adjustments and soft tissue techniques to release the tension and correct the misalignment driving the torticollis. By restoring proper motion in the upper neck, the muscle can relax and your baby can move more freely.
Adjustments are incredibly gentle, light fingertip pressure only, and most babies tolerate them well.
The earlier torticollis is addressed, the better the outcome. Left untreated, torticollis can contribute to plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome), delayed motor milestones, and asymmetric development patterns. Early chiropractic care helps prevent these complications and supports your baby's natural development.
Early Intervention Matters
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a chiropractor help with infant torticollis?
Yes. Gentle cervical adjustments and soft tissue work address the misalignment and tension that cause torticollis, helping restore full range of motion.
How early should a baby with torticollis be seen?
As early as possible. The sooner care begins, the faster the muscle tension resolves and the lower the risk of complications like plagiocephaly.
What causes torticollis in newborns?
Common causes include in-utero positioning, birth trauma (especially assisted deliveries), and prolonged positioning after birth. All of these can create tension and misalignment in the cervical spine.
How gentle is the adjustment?
Extremely gentle. Infant cervical adjustments use only fingertip pressure, lighter than what you'd use to test the ripeness of a piece of fruit.