Torticollis is a condition in which the sternocleidomastoid muscle on one side of the neck is shortened or in spasm, causing the infant to hold the head tilted to one side and rotated toward the other. It is frequently identified in the early weeks of life and often has its origins in positioning during late pregnancy or in the mechanics of birth. Plagiocephaly — asymmetrical flattening of the infant skull — commonly develops alongside torticollis, since an infant who consistently holds the head in one position will favor contact with the mattress on the same area of the skull. The two conditions frequently occur together and benefit from being evaluated together. Dr. Bronstein at Beacon Clinic of Chiropractic in Grover Beach assesses both the cervical spine and the craniosacral system when evaluating infants presenting with either condition.
Pediatric chiropractic evaluation of torticollis focuses on the cervical vertebrae and the muscles and soft tissues of the neck, assessing for restrictions in movement range and any structural asymmetry that may be contributing to the muscle tension pattern. Plagiocephaly evaluation at Beacon Clinic considers the shape and mobility of the cranial bones and the sacrum, both of which may be involved in the craniosacral pattern. Arroyo Grande families who have been advised by their pediatrician to monitor a head shape concern or a turning preference in their infant are welcome to contact Beacon Clinic to discuss whether a chiropractic evaluation would be a useful addition to their current approach.
