How Chiropractic Care Can Help with Torticollis in Babies and Children

Have you noticed that your baby or young child tilts their head to one side or has trouble turning their neck? This might be a condition known as torticollis, or “wry neck.” Although it sounds complex, it’s a condition that can be addressed and managed effectively. We encounter this frequently in our practice and have successfully assisted many families with it.

What is Torticollis in Babies?

Torticollis happens when the muscles on one side of the neck become tight or strained, causing the head to tilt or turn to one side. For babies, this condition can develop due to their position in the womb or after birth, especially during a long or difficult delivery. Torticollis can make it hard for babies to move their head freely, which may affect breastfeeding, tummy time, and their overall development.

Signs and Symptoms of Torticollis in Babies and Children

If you’re wondering whether your child might have torticollis, here are some common signs to look out for:

Head tends to tilt to one side
Difficulty turning the head or neck in one direction
Flattening on one side of the head (plagiocephaly)
Preference for feeding on one side
Asymmetry in facial features

How Can Chiropractic Care Help with Torticollis?

Chiropractic care focuses on the spine and the nervous system — what we like to call the “neurofuse box.” The neurofuse box controls all the muscles and joints in the body, including those in the neck. When there’s tightness or restriction in the neck muscles or joints, it can cause torticollis symptoms to worsen.

By using gentle, specific adjustments, a chiropractor can help restore proper movement and alignment in the neck and spine. This reduces muscle tension and allows the nervous system to function better, promoting natural healing. Over time, chiropractic care can improve the baby’s range of motion, help them move their head more freely, and support overall growth and development.

What to Expect During a Chiropractic Visit at Safe Haven

During your visit to a chiropractor for torticollis, Dr. Khan will begin with a gentle examination of your baby’s spine, neck, and overall posture. She will do a -non-invasive thermal scan to assess the motor nerves to find the root cause. She’ll use safe, light touches to feel for areas of tightness, tension, or misalignment.

If she identifies any issues, she will perform a gentle chiropractic adjustment using very light pressure to help restore movement and reduce tension. These adjustments are safe for babies and children and are tailored to their age, size, and specific needs.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Babies with Torticollis

Chiropractic care offers several benefits for babies and children with torticollis, including:

Improved Neck Mobility: Restoring proper alignment helps babies turn their heads more easily, supporting feeding and motor development.
Reduced Muscle Tension: Gentle adjustments relieve tightness in the neck muscles, which can alleviate discomfort and promote normal movement.
Enhanced Neurofuse Box Function: By optimizing how the nervous system functions, chiropractic care supports overall growth, development, and wellbeing.
Natural and Non-Invasive: Chiropractic care is a drug-free, non-invasive option that works with the body’s natural healing abilities.

Is Chiropractic Care Right for Your Baby?

If your baby is showing signs of torticollis, chiropractic care could be a gentle, effective way to help them feel better and support their development. Dr. Khan is certified in pediatric care by the Academy Council of Chiropractic Pediatrics. Reach out to us if you have any questions and follow us on Instagram (safehavenchiropractor) to learn more.

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