26/02/2025
Will babies grow out of torticollis? Here's what you can expect
If you've noticed your baby tilting their head to one side or having trouble turning their head in certain directions, you might be wondering if it's something they'll grow out of. Many parents worry about torticollis , where a baby's neck muscles become tight or stiff, causing them to tilt their heads. It can be a bit unsettling, but the good news is that with the right care, most babies can improve and grow out of torticollis infant. But, will they grow out of it on their own, or do you need to take action? We will provide you with all the information in this article.
Illustration of a baby with torticollis
What is torticollis?
Torticollis, also known as "wry neck," is a condition where a baby's neck muscles become tight on one side, causing their head to tilt or twist. This can make it difficult for them to turn their head in one direction, and you may notice that they prefer to look over one shoulder or have a flat spot on one side of their head due to limited movement.
Torticollis can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
Positional torticollis: This occurs when the baby spends too much time in one position, like lying on their back for long periods. It's fairly common in newborns and often improves with time.
Congenital torticollis: In this case, torticollis is present at birth and may be caused by the baby's position in the womb or by injury during delivery.
Will my baby grow out of it?
For many babies, infant torticollis can improve on its own over time, especially if it's mild. However, it's important to understand that just waiting for it to get better might not be enough, especially if your baby's range of motion is limited. If left untreated, torticollis can lead to developmental issues, like:
Flat spots on the head (plagiocephaly) - You can measure this by using our app. In just a few minutes, you'll know whether your baby has plagiocephaly or not.
Delayed motor development, such as rolling or sitting up
Difficulty with balance as they grow
What can you do to help?
While your baby may naturally improve with time, there are things you can do to encourage healthy neck development and ensure that they don't experience any long-term effects from the torticollis infant.
Tummy time : Giving your baby plenty of tummy time helps strengthen neck muscles and promotes the development of motor skills. It's especially important for babies with torticollis, as it encourages them to move their head and neck in all directions.
Repositioning : Try gently encouraging your baby to turn their head in the direction they're less comfortable with. You can do this during playtime by placing toys or objects of interest slightly to the side, so they're encouraged to look toward it. You can also alternate the side they sleep on (while always following safe sleep guidelines).
Physical therapy : In some cases, a pediatric physical therapist can help. They'll guide you through specific exercises to gently stretch and strengthen your baby's neck muscles. Physical therapy is especially helpful if torticollis is more severe or if your baby isn't showing improvement with home efforts alone.
When to seek professional help
Most cases of torticollis infants improve with simple at-home care and exercises. However, if your baby's neck remains stiff, they're not improving, or you're concerned about any developmental delays, it's important to reach out to your pediatrician. They may refer you to a specialist or physical therapist for additional help.
Conclusion
So, will your baby grow out of torticollis? Most likely, yes—but it's best to be proactive. With a little extra care, like tummy time, repositioning, and possibly some physical therapy, your baby can recover and develop strong, healthy neck muscles. If you're concerned or notice that your baby isn't improving, don't hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and in case you have questions, you can contact our team as well.
Remember, torticollis is a common condition, and with the right support, your baby will be back to their playful, curious self in no time!
