A Gentle Touch for Little Necks: Why Chiropractic is the Best Choice for Your Baby's Torticollis
Torticollis, also known as wry neck, is a condition that affects newborns and is characterized by a tilting of the head to one side. For example, those “cute” babies that are constantly tilting their head to one side in their car seat, or only wanting to look to one side. These babies most likely have torticollis!! Despite being cute and adorable, the head tilting is a major red flag.
Torticollis is characterized by a tight sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) in the baby's neck. While the cause is often unknown, it is more commonly seen with birth “trauma”, dystocia, and even odd fetal positioning in utero.
While torticollis can be a scary diagnosis, the good news is it is an easily treatable condition, especially if caught early! While traditional treatments often involved medication or physical therapy, new research and a growing number of parents are turning to chiropractic care as a gentle and effective alternative. Chiropractic care stands out as an effective solution for your baby because it removes structural shifts in the spine allowing the neuromuscular system to function better. In fact, at Peak Potential Chiropractic we have seen many, many cases and our moms will tell you nothing but life changing experiences for their families and newborn.
Here's why chiropractic should be your top choice for helping your baby's torticollis:
Gentle Adjustments: Unlike traditional physical therapy (which is a great complementary medicine to chiropractic), which can involve vigorous stretches, chiropractic care utilizes specific, gentle adjustments to the spine. These adjustments remove structural shifts in the spine that may have happened in utero or throughout labor. These specific, gentle adjustments remove pressure off the nervous system allowing the muscles to function better. This function can help to loosen the tight SCM muscle and restore proper function, alleviating pain and discomfort for your baby.
Drug-Free Approach: Babies are incredibly sensitive to medications, and many parents are understandably hesitant to subject their little ones to unnecessary drugs. Thankfully, chiropractic care offers a safe and effective alternative to medication, allowing your baby to heal quickly and naturally.
Improved Range of Motion: Chiropractic adjustments help to improve your baby's range of motion in their neck and head. This allows them to move more freely and comfortably, promoting better development and reducing the risk of further complications.
Reduced Risk of Long-Term Problems: Untreated torticollis can lead to various long-term problems, including facial asymmetry, plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome), and even scoliosis. By addressing torticollis early with chiropractic care, you can significantly reduce the risk of these complications and ensure your baby's healthy development.
Holistic Approach: Chiropractic care takes a holistic approach to healing, addressing the underlying cause of the problem rather than just the symptoms. This ensures long-lasting results and promotes overall well-being for your baby.
Personalized Care: A pediatric chiropractor will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your baby's specific needs and condition. This ensures that your little one receives the most effective care possible.
Evidence-Based Practice: A growing body of research supports the effectiveness of chiropractic care for treating torticollis in babies. Studies have shown that chiropractic adjustments can significantly improve symptoms, reduce treatment time, and prevent future complications.
Peace of Mind: As a parent, seeing your baby in pain can be incredibly stressful. Chiropractic care can provide you with the peace of mind knowing that your baby is receiving the best possible treatment and is on the road to recovery.
If you're concerned that your baby may have torticollis, don't hesitate to schedule a complimentary consultation with us. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to successful treatment and ensuring your baby's long-term health and well-being.
Here are some additional benefits of chiropractic care for babies:
Reduced developmental delays
Improved sleep
Reduced or eliminated Flat Head Syndrome
Reduced fussiness
Enhanced immunity
Improved digestion
Increased alertness
Taking Action:
Early intervention is crucial for optimal outcomes. If you notice your baby experiencing torticollis symptoms, schedule a complimentary consultation with us! Throughout our consultation we sit down with you, answer all of your questions and concerns, and make sure chiropractic would be a good fit. Our goal at Peak Potential Chiropractic is to help your baby experience relief and enjoy healthy growth and development. Give us a call if you have any questions!
