Conservative Care of Pediatric Acquired Torticollis:
A Report of 2 Cases

The Chiro.Org Blog


SOURCE:   J Chiropr Med. 2017 (Sep);   16 (3):   252-256


Morgan D. Young, DC, Jessie L. Young, DC

Research Department,
Palmer College of Chiropractic West,
San Jose, California.


OBJECTIVE:   The purpose of this case report is to describe the conservative management of 2 cases of acquired torticollis in children under 3 years of age.

CLINICAL FEATURES:   Both patients awoke with painful, stiff, twisted necks the day after play in a bouncy house. Range of motion was limited, and hypertonic muscles were palpated. Their neurologic and physical evaluation was consistent with a diagnosis of acquired torticollis of musculoskeletal origin.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOMES:   Both children were treated with chiropractic care that consisted of light myofascial release, use of an Activator instrument, and home stretching. Patients improved in pain and range of motion immediately posttreatment and returned to normal ranges in 1 or 2 visits.

CONCLUSION:   Chiropractic care provided relief for these 2 young patients with acquired torticollis.

KEYWORDS:   Chiropractic; Manipulation; Pediatric; Torticollis