What is OT

An occupational therapy focus is on functional outcomes to things that are meaningful for you. For example if you loved to play sports and could no longer we would explore either rehabilitation to return to sports or different ways to engage in your passions. Another example is if getting your child ready for the day stresses you both out we work on function, relationship, and mental health strategies to help. What if a baby isn't meeting their milestones we help with that too! Fine motor? Got that covered. What about memory and organization? You guessed it, we can do that do! Feeding and Picky Eating? We can help! Keep reading for more specifics! 

Torticollis  is either congenital present at birth) or positional (acquired). Positional develops by your baby having a preference to one side. This may be caused by environmental stimuli, vision, asymmetrical muscle development, equipment (swings, bouncy chairs, and bassinets). The earlier intervention begins the better outcomes and quicker results. Parental instincts are always right, advocate for what you feel best. Referrals start as early as 6 weeks for positional torticollis and as early as 2 weeks for congenital torticollis. 

What can you do to help?

• If you use any baby equipment; check to ensure they can achieve full range. For example some squishy, padded swings inhibit movement to the alternate side when there is a preference. 
• Babies like to look around to explore their environment; position your child in a crib with the non preferred side to the room 
• Babies rely on you for their attunement and regulation, position them during diaper changes so their non preferred side faces you. (This is harder than you think for you when you have a system and have to change it!)
• Change their car seat position from the right or left side of the car if possible to support them looing to their non preferred side. 
• See a specialist for specific stretches and exercises. 

Congenital torticollis more difficult to treat due to the complexity of the underlying issue and the asymmetry and muscle imbalance that started in the in utero  . That being said it takes more grit, patience, and investigation. It is not impossible and fixable with the right interventions and approach. 

Congenital torticollis can be caused from growth restrictions due to positioning in utero (commonly seen in Twin A). It can also be caused by hip subluxation, reflux, tongue/lip tie, tumors, and brachial plexus injuries.