Torticollis Diagnosis

One week into the Pavlik harness journey, we head to the pediatric physical therapist to get evaluated for torticollis. I have since learned that torticollis and hip dysplasia are common to have together. This evaluation involves the doctor moving baby around to see her range of motion and taking some measurements of her head to see its symmetry.

The doctor concludes that she does have torticollis. Baby's version involves a preference for turning her head to the right, difficulty getting her chin to her left shoulder, and some asymmetry of her head. For the asymmetry, her right ear was pulled slightly forward, which is a result of the flatness on the back right side, which shifts facial features. It was only a few millimeters off, but the doctor could tell. I couldn't, even when specifically shown.

The doctor showed us how to do a variety of movements at home that are useful for helping baby girl strengthen her muscles and stretch out the tightness that was preventing her from turning to the left. Some of them included:

• Gently cupping her face and turning her head to the left, all the way to the shoulder, and holding for 30 seconds. This could be while she was laying on her back or while sitting in our lap.

• Holding her in football hold, facing out, head to the left side, and gently opening up the space between her left shoulder and chin. This is to help stretch out her tight muscles.

• Holding baby girl in front of a mirror or exciting toy and getting her to lift her head and look to the left side. We found the mirror worked best to get her to track the images to the left while we moved her body. Imagine a superman pose while holding baby in the air.

• Baby crunches where we slowly lift her head/upper body up from the ground just a few inches via her arms/shoulders. She should keep her chin tucked and lift head with her body. We were told to do this 3-5 times per diaper change, as it's a convenient place to remember to do the exercise.

• We were directed to put all toys to her left side while she was on the ground, so that she would be enticed to look left.

• We also flipped her bassinet around so that she would look over her left shoulder at us when we were putting her to bed and getting her up.

Most of all, the doctor stressed tummy time. She showed us a variety of ways to modify it (i.e., boppy or blanket rolled up) if needed. Both the orthopedic doctor and physical therapist said tummy time is okay with the harness and encouraged. This also keeps them out of containers, helps prevent the flat spots, and encourages free movement. Tummy time is the biggest thing that helps with their muscles and keeps them off the flat part of their head.

With these directions and some follow up appointments booked, we headed home.