Recognizing the Signs Early
If your baby tilts their head to one side or seems to favour looking in one direction, it could be more than just a preference. These subtle signs sometimes indicate infant torticollis, a condition that occurs when one neck muscle tightens or shortens more than the other. This can cause the baby’s head to tilt toward one shoulder while the chin points in the opposite direction.
Parents may also notice a small flat spot on one side of the head or fussiness when the baby is encouraged to turn the other way. Recognizing these early patterns allows for simple, gentle intervention that can make a big difference in your baby’s comfort and mobility.
Why It Happens
Infant torticollis is common and can develop before or after birth. In some cases, the baby’s position in the womb or a snug fit during the final weeks of pregnancy causes one neck muscle to tighten. For others, the birthing process or spending long periods lying in the same position can play a role. Regardless of the cause, the good news is that once identified, torticollis can usually be corrected through natural, movement-based care. The earlier it is addressed, the quicker babies adapt and regain a full range of motion.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Physiotherapy for infant torticollis focuses on restoring symmetry and encouraging free movement. One of our trained physiotherapists will teach you gentle exercises and positioning techniques to do at home. These might include tummy time to strengthen core and neck muscles, visual tracking activities that encourage turning both ways, and simple stretches that lengthen tight areas.
The process is calm and guided, always keeping your baby’s comfort at the forefront. Consistency and patience are key—most babies improve steadily with regular support and engagement.
Building Confidence as a Parent
Caring for a baby with torticollis can feel overwhelming at first, but with guidance and reassurance, parents quickly gain confidence. At Helios Physiotherapy and Rehab, we believe in empowering families with knowledge and hands-on education. Each session is designed to be interactive, showing parents how to recognize progress and celebrate every small milestone.
Our compassionate team is here to support your family’s journey toward healthy, natural movement. With early care, encouragement, and love, your baby can grow strong and move with ease.