Pediatric Potentials has expanded our program to ensure that infants with Positional Plagiocephaly and Torticollis can be seen for short term treatment. Positional Plagiocephaly, also known as flattened head syndrome, results from preferentially lying on one side of the head. Positional Plagiocephaly is characterized by an asymmetrical distortion (flattening of the back or one side) of the head.  Since more infants sleep on their backs, more have some flattening of the back of their heads. This condition can be much worse on one side if a child preferentially sleeps with that side down. Tortocollis is the shortening or excessive contraction of the sternocleidomastoid muscle of the neck.  This shortening/excessive contraction causes limited range of motion in both rotation and lateral bending of the neck. The head is typically tilted in lateral bending toward the affected muscle and rotated toward the opposite side. Torticollis may also contribute to Positional Plagiocephaly. 

An increasing number of babies are being seen with these conditions, especially with the rise of multiple and premature births and the back to sleep program. Our physical therapists (as well as our occupational therapists), perform evaluations and short term treatment of these conditions. Treatment consists of positioning and strengthening/stretching exercises, parent/caregiver education and the establishment of individualized home exercise programs.  The length of treatment needed varies depending on the individual progress of your child.  Monitoring and follow up is needed to ensure your baby’s successful progression.