So, maybe you’ve heard the terms “torticollis” and “plagiocephaly” thrown around and wondered if they’re just fancy medical jargon or if they actually go together. (Spoiler alert: they go together.)

Let’s break it down!

Torticollis: “Stiff Neck Syndrome”

First things first, torticollis is like your neck’s way of saying it’s had a hard day at the office. Also known as “wry neck,” it’s when your little one’s neck muscles are so tight on one side that their head tilts to that side while their chin juts the other way. It’s a twisty predicament, but not a permanent one - thankfully. While some babies are born with torticollis (congenital torticollis) due to their position in the womb (especially common in breech babies), others develop torticollis (positional torticollis) during delivery (especially with forceps or vacuum assisted delivery), or prolonged positioning, such as only feeding on one side or not turning their head while sleeping on their back. 

Plagiocephaly: “Flat Head Syndrome”

Now, on to plagiocephaly. This is the condition where baby’s head develops a flat spot, often resulting in a slightly misshapen or lopsided appearance. Think of it as a head that's had a bit too much time on one side—literally. Babies’ skulls are very moldable and quickly shift in shape when spending a lot of time in one position, and especially looking in one direction more than the other. This is why tummy time is so important! 

Plagiocephaly is most commonly seen in babies who spend a lot of time on their back with a preference of looking to one side almost exclusively, or spending time on their back without turning their head. It is also common in premature babies and those who spent time in the NICU.

The Connection: Torticollis and Plagiocephaly—A Head-Turning Relationship

Here’s where our twisty tale intertwines: torticollis can definitely lead to plagiocephaly. But why? 

Option 1: When a baby has torticollis, they favor turning their head in one direction, especially at rest. This head-turning habit can cause them to spend more time lying on the same side, putting pressure on that spot. Over time, this pressure can flatten one side of the head, leading to plagiocephaly. It’s a case of “I can’t turn my head, so my head physically becomes lopsided.”

Option 2: These babies are often noted as having a preference in which direction to turn their head - so baby may spend most of their floor time (tummy or back) or in ‘containers’ (car seats, swings, bouncers, etc.) with their neck turned so they are always looking in the same direction. 

Occupational Therapy to the Rescue

Enter the occupational therapist with a game plan to untangle the knots. We’re here to help correct that head tilt and encourage more balanced head positioning and related muscle symmetries throughout the body. Our toolbox is packed with play-based activities and positioning strategies to elicit the best results. Other tools may include infant massage or parent-led stretching.

The goal is to get the baby's head to turn freely in all directions, reducing the chances of flattening and ensuring a more symmetrical head shape. Hips and arms will also likely be involved in the therapy dance. Treatment focuses on not only improving current presentations but also preventing further flat spots or muscle tension for complete resolution of symptoms.

In summary, yes, torticollis CAN cause plagiocephaly. The twist? Not all babies with torticollis develop head flattening when early intervention is provided. Both conditions can be managed effectively when you have the right people on your team. With timely therapeutic intervention and parental involvement, you can set the stage for a happy, healthy, and head-rotating baby. So, let us work with you to twist and turn that neck to get your little one moving and grooving! 

Keep that head up—both literally and figuratively!