Torticollis

The term torticollis is derived from two Latin terms, tortus meaning twisted, and collum, meaning neck. The most common type of torticollis is Congenital Muscular Torticollis (CMT). Torticollis can be postural, muscular, or nodular in origin. This means there may be a palpable nodule, a tight muscle or a favoring to one side without muscular tightness. The child will hold his or her head with a tilt to the side of the shortened muscle and a rotation of the head to the opposite side. In some cases, flattening of the skull (Plagiocephaly) can occur and asymmetry of the craniofacial structures are present. Problems associated with CMT are loss of range of motion of the neck, decreased head control and altered gross motor development.