Torticollis & Your Baby

Have you noticed that your baby tends to look toward one side more than the other? Perhaps your baby tilts their head to one side or prefers turning one way during play. Maybe you’ve noticed that your baby seems much more comfortable feeding on one side than the other.

Sometimes it’s easy to notice. Other times, it’s a subtle pattern you begin to pick up on in photos or during everyday moments with your baby.

If you’re seeing these signs, you’re not alone. These can all be signs of torticollis, a common condition in infancy that affects how a baby positions and moves their head and neck found in up to 16% (1 in 6) of babies.

With early support, babies with torticollis often respond very well to physical therapy, especially when movement preferences are recognized early.

What Is Torticollis?

Torticollis occurs when tightness or an imbalance in the muscles of a baby’s neck affects how they hold and move their head. You may notice your baby tilting their head to one side while preferring to look toward the other.

Because every baby moves and develops differently, the signs of torticollis can vary from one baby to another.

Some babies have a noticeable head tilt or difficulty turning their head. Others have full movement but consistently prefer looking one way. That preference matters too, especially when you see it throughout the day.

What You Might Notice:
● A head tilt that is frequently or consistently present
● A strong preference for looking in one direction
● Difficulty turning the head fully to one side
● Always sleeping or resting with the head turned the same way
● A preference for one side during feeding
● A flat spot developing on the side or back of the head
● Differences in how your baby uses the right and left sides of their body

What Does Physical Therapy for Torticollis Look Like at Cubs Corner?

When we evaluate a baby with torticollis, we’re looking at the whole baby: how easily they turn their head, how they hold their body, how they use each side, how they tolerate tummy time, and how their movement is developing overall.

Treatment is individualized to what your baby needs. At Cubs Corner, we prioritize baby-led play, meaning we aim to follow your baby’s commands and never force an exercise or position. We believe that the best results occur when a baby and their family are calm, happy, and feel safe.

When Should You Reach Out?

You don’t have to wait until a head tilt or preference becomes significant before asking about it.

If any of the signs listed above feel similar to something you’ve experienced with your baby, reach out to us.

Not Sure If What You’re Seeing Is Torticollis?

You don’t need to figure that out on your own. We’re here for you and your baby.

If you’ve noticed a head tilt, a strong preference for one direction, changes in your baby’s head shape, or simply have questions about the way your baby is moving, our expert physical therapists are more than happy to take a closer look.

Wondering About Something You’re Seeing?

We are here for you. If you have a question, a concern, or simply want another perspective, our team of experts is here to help you make sense of what you’re seeing and determine what comes next.