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Torticollis & Plagiocephaly 

 

What Is Torticollis & Plagiocephaly?

Torticollis and plagiocephaly are two conditions commonly seen together in infants and young children. Torticollis occurs when the neck muscles are tight or imbalanced, causing a child’s head to tilt to one side and rotate to the opposite side. It may be present at birth (congenital muscular torticollis) or develop later.

Plagiocephaly refers to flattening of one area of the head, often caused by consistent pressure on one side. This flattening frequently develops when a baby has a preferred head position related to torticollis.

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When left unaddressed, these conditions can impact head shape, posture, vision, feeding, and overall motor development. Early physical therapy is highly effective in improving neck mobility, symmetry, and movement patterns while supporting healthy head shape development.

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At REACH Pediatrics Therapy Services, our pediatric physical therapists specialize in the evaluation and treatment of torticollis and plagiocephaly using gentle, evidence-based, and family-centered approaches.

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Signs Your Child May Have Torticollis or Plagiocephaly

Every child presents differently. Some common signs include:

  • Head consistently tilted to one side

  • Preference for looking in one direction

  • Limited neck range of motion

  • Flattening on one side or the back of the head

  • Facial or ear asymmetry

  • Difficulty with tummy time

  • Delayed gross motor milestones

  • Asymmetrical rolling, crawling, or sitting

  • Feeding difficulties related to head or neck positioning

If you notice any of these signs, a physical therapy evaluation is recommended.

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Why Early Treatment Matters

Early intervention plays a critical role in treating torticollis and plagiocephaly. Addressing these concerns early can help:

  • Improve neck mobility and head control

  • Promote symmetrical movement patterns

  • Support healthy head shape development

  • Reduce the need for more intensive interventions later

  • Improve visual tracking, feeding positions, and posture

  • Prevent compensatory movement habits

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Our goal is to support healthy, symmetrical development during critical stages of growth.

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How Physical Therapy Helps

Pediatric physical therapy focuses on restoring balance, strength, and movement through gentle, purposeful interventions.

Therapy may include:

  • Gentle stretching to improve neck range of motion

  • Strengthening of weak neck and trunk muscles

  • Positioning strategies for daily routines

  • Tummy time support and progression

  • Play-based activities to encourage symmetrical movement

  • Education for caregivers on handling, positioning, and play

  • Monitoring head shape development and movement symmetry

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All interventions are individualized, safe, and developmentally appropriate.

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Who Can Benefit from Therapy?

Physical therapy for torticollis and plagiocephaly is appropriate for:

  • Infants diagnosed with congenital muscular torticollis

  • Infants with head shape flattening or asymmetry

  • Babies with strong positional preferences

  • Infants struggling with tummy time or head control

  • Children with delayed motor milestones related to neck mobility

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Our physical therapists complete comprehensive evaluations to determine severity and create individualized treatment plans.

Our Treatment Approach at REACH

At REACH Pediatrics Therapy Services, we provide the highest quality of care through compassion, collaboration, and innovation.

Our approach includes:

  • Early identification and intervention

  • Family education and hands-on training

  • Play-based, developmentally appropriate therapy

  • Ongoing progress monitoring

  • Collaboration with pediatricians, orthotists, and specialists when needed

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We empower families with the knowledge and confidence to support progress at home.

Supporting Your Child Beyond the Clinic

Families are essential partners in successful outcomes. Our therapists provide guidance on:

  • Safe stretching and positioning techniques

  • Feeding, carrying, and play strategies

  • Encouraging movement to both sides

  • Integrating therapy strategies into daily routines

Consistent carryover supports faster, more meaningful progress.

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Schedule an Evaluation

If you have concerns about your baby’s head position, head shape, or movement development, early support can make a meaningful difference.

Contact REACH Pediatrics Therapy Services today to schedule a physical therapy evaluation at our Decatur or Muscle Shoals location and learn how we can support your child’s healthy development.

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