Torticolis

My friend's DS was diagnosed with torticolis and has been receiving physical therapy since 3 weeks old. Anyone have any experiences with helping a child with torticolis or know a time frame for it to correct itself or him to be able to compensate for it ? For example, she is having difficulty feeding him in the high chair while trying to position him and keep him from grabbing the spoon etc. I feel so lost giving her suggestions and support.

Re: Torticolis

There are a few posts on this site & some moms dealing with it now.

Here are some links:
http://www.lifamilies.com/chat/topic.aspx?&P=1&ID=39634#P531358

http://www.lifamilies.com/chat/topic-41258-1.html

I spoke to my chiropractor friend. It's more common than you would think. If you get treatment right away (as she did with our other friend's baby) that it could take 3-5 adjustments. Waiting longer could require 3+ months physical therapy -- and possibly wearing the helmet that you've probably seen on children. The flatness is just a side effect of him not being able to turn his head - but as time goes on, it turns into developmental problems.

Re: Torticolis

My son had torticollis when he was an infant. Hes 3 1/2 now and perfectly fine. I suppose it depends on the severity but I never had a feeding/position issue. I'd gladly answer any Q's you or your friend might have. It did require repositioning him alot in general, overcompensating for the way he naturally turned but it got easier to do and the PT helped alot. How old is your friends son now? Thats awesome that they caught it that early and he started the PT early. FM if you want to discuss it further.

ETA: My son has been fine for a long time now, it didnt take 3 years for his neck to straighten out.

Message edited 3/28/2006 11:11:11 AM.

Re: Torticolis

Thanks for the responses. My friend's son is 5 months old. I think she is going to ask for an increase in PT and his head is flat in the back too...

Re: Torticolis