Congenital torticollis, often referred to as "wry neck," is a condition where a baby’s head tilts to one side, often accompanied by a limited range of motion in the neck. This condition is typically present at birth and can develop due to positioning in the womb or muscle tightness in the neck. While the condition can be alarming for parents, the good news is that with early intervention, most children experience significant improvement.
At Physiotherapy Madeira, we understand the unique needs of infants and children, which is why we’re proud to have Nicole Freitas, one of our dedicated physiotherapists, as part of our team. Nicole specializes in pediatric care and is deeply passionate about helping young patients with conditions like congenital torticollis.
What is Congenital Torticollis?
Congenital torticollis occurs when the sternocleidomastoid muscle (the muscle that runs along the side of the neck) becomes shortened or tight, causing the head to tilt in one direction. It can be identified by a noticeable tilt of the head, limited head rotation, or the baby preferring to look in one direction. If left untreated, it can lead to developmental delays in motor skills or affect the baby’s ability to reach their milestones.
How Physiotherapy Helps in Treating Congenital Torticollis
Physical therapy is the most effective treatment for congenital torticollis. Through targeted stretches, positioning techniques, and gentle exercises, a skilled pediatric physiotherapist can help relax the affected muscles, improve neck mobility, and guide your child’s body back into alignment. The earlier the treatment begins, the more effective it tends to be.
Nicole Freitas has extensive experience in treating infants and children with congenital torticollis. She uses an individualized approach to develop treatment plans that cater to each child’s specific needs. Her hands-on techniques focus on reducing muscle tension, improving range of motion, and encouraging proper positioning during daily activities, such as feeding or tummy time.
Physiotherapist Nicole Freitas: Passionate About Pediatric Care
Nicole’s dedication to pediatric care goes beyond her professional qualifications. With a natural affinity for working with children, she brings empathy and patience to every session. Nicole understands the emotional and physical challenges parents face when their child is diagnosed with congenital torticollis, and she works closely with families to ensure they feel supported every step of the way.
Nicole’s approach to therapy is not just about correcting the physical aspect of torticollis but also about creating a positive and reassuring environment for both the child and the parents. She takes the time to educate parents on proper positioning and at-home exercises, ensuring that treatment continues even outside the clinic.
Physiotherapist Tip for Parents: Encourage Tummy Time
One of the most effective ways to support your baby's recovery from congenital torticollis is by incorporating tummy time into their daily routine. Tummy time helps strengthen the muscles in the neck and upper body, promoting better head control and neck mobility. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration as your baby grows stronger. Always make sure your baby is supervised during tummy time, and remember to vary the position to encourage them to turn their head in both directions. This simple yet powerful activity can make a big difference in your child’s progress and overall development.
Why Choose Us?
When you bring your child to our clinic, you’re choosing a team of skilled professionals who specialize in pediatric physiotherapy. Nicole Freitas is part of a compassionate and experienced team that is committed to making a difference in your child’s health and well-being.
We understand that every child is unique, and that’s why we offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your child’s specific needs. Whether it's congenital torticollis or any other pediatric condition, we are here to provide the support, care, and expertise your family needs for a healthy and active future.
Let Us Help Your Child Reach Their Full Potential
If you suspect that your child might have congenital torticollis or if you've already received a diagnosis, don’t wait to seek treatment. Early intervention is key to a quicker and more effective recovery. Nicole Freitas and our entire team are ready to help guide your child on their journey to recovery with compassion, expertise, and a strong commitment to pediatric care.
Contact us today to schedule an assessment with Nicole and start your child on the path to better neck mobility, comfort, and overall well-being.
We hope this blog post serves as an informative resource for parents dealing with congenital torticollis. Our goal is always to empower families with the knowledge and support they need to make the best decisions for their child’s health.
