Is your neck stuck in an awkward position or experiencing pain and stiffness? You may be dealing with torticollis, a condition that causes the head to tilt or twist unnaturally. At MM PHYSIO, with locations in Cambridge and Guelph, Ontario, we specialize in diagnosing and treating torticollis with personalized physiotherapy services to help restore your comfort and mobility.
What is Torticollis?
Torticollis, often referred to as "wry neck," occurs when the muscles on one side of the neck contract abnormally, pulling the head toward the shoulder and rotating the chin in the opposite direction. This condition can appear in various forms and affect people of all ages:
- Congenital Torticollis: Present at birth, this type is often caused by the positioning of the baby in the womb or muscle tightness in the neck (sternocleidomastoid muscle). It is more common in newborns and infants.
- Acquired Torticollis: This can develop later in life due to factors like poor posture, neck muscle spasms, or after an injury, such as whiplash. Acquired torticollis is common in children, teens, and adults.
Symptoms of Torticollis:
The condition can range from mild discomfort to more severe, chronic pain. Here are some common signs that you might be dealing with torticollis:- Head tilted to one side with limited range of motion
- Pain or stiffness in the neck and shoulders
- Difficulty moving the head or neck
- Swelling or tenderness around the neck muscles
- Muscle tightness that worsens with activity
- Headaches, dizziness, or shoulder pain
Who is at Risk for Torticollis?
Torticollis affects a wide range of age groups. Some specific considerations include:
Infants (0-12 months): Congenital torticollis often becomes noticeable a few weeks after birth. Babies may hold their heads at an awkward angle or prefer looking in one direction. Early detection and treatment can prevent long-term issues like skull flattening (plagiocephaly) and developmental delays in neck mobility.
Children and Adolescents: Torticollis in young children is often due to trauma, infections, or poor posture, especially from the excessive use of screens and devices.
Adults (18+): In adults, torticollis is frequently associated with muscle injuries, stress, arthritis, or poor ergonomics, such as prolonged desk work without proper posture. Acquired torticollis in adults can also be linked to neurological conditions like dystonia.
Why Should You Seek Physiotherapy for Torticollis?
If you notice any of these symptoms or if your neck is stuck in an uncomfortable position for an extended period, it's important to seek treatment early. Physiotherapy can be highly effective in addressing the root causes of torticollis and relieving discomfort.
At MM PHYSIO, we offer tailored physiotherapy programs that focus on:
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to reduce muscle tension, improve mobility, and correct neck alignment.
- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises designed to stretch tight muscles and strengthen weak areas to restore balance in the neck.
- Posture Correction: Guidance on maintaining proper posture during everyday activities to prevent further strain on the neck.
- Education and Prevention: Our physiotherapists provide tips on ergonomics and lifestyle changes to help reduce the likelihood of torticollis reoccurring, especially in adults with desk jobs or sedentary lifestyles.
Additional Treatment for Torticollis in Infants
- Increased Tummy Time: Encouraging tummy time in infants helps improve neck strength and mobility. This can be an effective way to prevent or treat mild cases of congenital torticollis.
- Physiotherapy: Special exercises designed to gently stretch the neck muscles and increase flexibility are central to treatment. With proper treatment, 90%-95% of children improve or achieve an acceptable range of neck motion.
- Helmet Therapy: In cases of severe plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome), helmet therapy may be recommended to reshape the skull while continuing physiotherapy.
- Safe Sleep Recommendations: Parents and caregivers should always place babies on their backs to sleep, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), even if there's a possibility of flat head.
Benefits of Physiotherapy for Torticollis
- No Side Effects: Physiotherapy is a safe, non-invasive treatment with no known side effects.
- Cost-Effective: Compared to surgical or medical interventions, physiotherapy is an affordable and practical option.
- Customized Treatment Plans: Physiotherapy is tailored to treat the underlying cause of torticollis, ensuring a personalized and effective recovery plan.
- Direct Billing Available: At MM PHYSIO, we make the treatment process even smoother by offering direct billing to most insurance companies, ensuring a hassle-free experience for our patients.
When Should You Seek Help for Torticollis?
Infants and Children: If your baby is showing signs of torticollis (head tilting or difficulty turning their head), early intervention is crucial. Untreated torticollis in infants can lead to developmental delays or permanent postural imbalances. Pediatric physiotherapy can help resolve these issues, ensuring proper muscle function and head alignment.
Teens and Adults: Adults experiencing neck pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility should not ignore the symptoms of torticollis. Prompt physiotherapy can prevent chronic pain, muscle imbalances, and further complications.
Why Choose MM PHYSIO for Torticollis Treatment?
At MM PHYSIO, our experienced team of physiotherapists in Cambridge and Guelph is committed to providing you with the highest standard of care. We combine evidence-based treatment methods with customized care plans to help you recover as quickly and safely as possible. Whether you are a parent seeking help for your newborn or an adult dealing with neck pain, we are here to guide you through your recovery.
MM PHYSIO Locations and Contact Information
Cambridge Clinic:
Address: 50 Hopeton St, Cambridge, Ontario, N1R 3T3
Phone: 519-267-0495
Guelph Clinic:
Address: 715 Wellington St W, Guelph, Ontario
Phone: 519-267-0495
Don't let torticollis limit your life. Contact MM PHYSIO today to book a consultation at our Cambridge or Guelph clinic and take the first step toward pain relief and improved mobility.
