Torticollis in Flint & Grand Blanc, MI

Torticollis, also known as wry neck, is a condition characterized by the involuntary contraction or tightening of the muscles in the neck, leading to abnormal head positioning. If you or your child are dealing with torticollis, you understand the challenges it can pose in daily activities and quality of life. At our clinic, our compassionate and experienced physical therapists specialize in providing comprehensive care and effective treatment options for torticollis. Through a personalized approach, we aim to help you or your child find relief, improve function, and enhance overall well-being.

Torticollis can develop in infants, children, and adults, and can be classified as congenital or acquired. Congenital torticollis often occurs due to birth trauma or positioning in the womb, while acquired torticollis can result from muscle or nerve abnormalities, injuries, infections, or other underlying conditions. The main characteristic of torticollis is the tilting or rotation of the head to one side, often accompanied by neck pain, muscle stiffness, and limited range of motion.

Our Personalized Treatment Plans

Our physical therapists combine their expertise with evidence-based practices to address the underlying causes of torticollis and manage the associated symptoms effectively. Some of the treatment modalities and techniques we may utilize include:

• Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises that focus on stretching the tight muscles and strengthening the weak muscles in the neck and upper body. These exercises help improve range of motion, reduce muscle imbalances, and promote optimal posture.
• Manual Therapy Techniques: Hands-on techniques, such as soft tissue mobilization and joint mobilizations, to help release muscle tension, improve joint mobility, and restore proper alignment of the neck.
• Postural Training: Education and guidance on proper body mechanics, posture, and ergonomics to help improve overall alignment and reduce stress on the neck muscles.
• Sensory Integration: Techniques and activities that promote sensory integration and proprioception, helping individuals develop better body awareness and coordination.

Parent and Caregiver Education

For infants and children with torticollis, we provide education and guidance to parents and caregivers on strategies to promote proper positioning, handling, and play activities that can help facilitate optimal development and minimize the impact of torticollis on their child’s growth.

Collaborative Care and Support

We understand the physical, emotional, and psychological challenges that can arise from living with torticollis. Our team strives to provide a supportive and compassionate environment where you feel comfortable sharing your concerns and goals. We take a collaborative approach, working closely with other healthcare professionals, such as pediatricians, neurologists, and orthopedic specialists, to ensure that you or your child receive comprehensive and coordinated care.

Improving Function and Quality of Life

Our ultimate goal is to help you or your child find relief from torticollis and improve overall function and quality of life. We understand that torticollis can impact activities such as sleeping, feeding, social interactions, and participating in everyday tasks. By addressing the underlying causes and implementing appropriate interventions, we aim to help you or your child regain optimal neck function, alleviate pain.