Chiropractic correction of congenital muscular torticollis.

OBJECTIVE

To present a case of congenital muscular torticollis and discuss the clinical manifestations and chiropractic treatment.

CLINICAL FEATURES: A 7-month-old male infant with significant head tilt since birth was brought to a chiropractic physician for evaluation. The infant's history included ear infections, facial asymmetry and regurgitation. Significant spasm of the left sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles, a left lateral atlas and suboccipital joint dysfunctions were present upon examination. A diagnosis of congenital muscular torticollis was made.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME: Treatments included chiropractic manipulation, trigger point therapy, specific stretches, pillow positioning and exercises. Excellent results were obtained.

CONCLUSION

Suggests that chiropractic intervention is a viable treatment option for congenital muscular torticollis. Further studies should be performed to compare the effectiveness of other treatment options.