In an infant, torticollis does not go away on its own in most cases. Getting your baby care for this condition requires identifying unusual symptoms, reporting them to the child’s doctor, and receiving an accurate diagnosis. Often, parents will notice the baby refusing to feed on one side or favoring one side of the body over the other.
When you recognize torticollis symptoms early and seek treatment for your child, permanent injuries are rare. You may be able to avoid lasting complications and reduce the need for surgical repair. Treatment often focuses on a physical therapy routine from your child’s pediatrician or a physical therapist.
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Causes of Torticollis in Babies
Torticollis, or “wry neck,” can occur on its own and is not always the result of a birth injury. Often, a baby with a complicated birth—such as breech—will develop this condition because of the unusual position in the womb. It is also more common in babies from multiple pregnancies, such as twins and triplets, because there is less room for them to position themselves properly for delivery.
In some cases, torticollis is the result of a preventable birth injury from medical negligence. This can occur if the doctor fails to identify potential issues before or during delivery, leading to a long, difficult labor and delivery.
No matter the cause, torticollis does not go away on its own in infants. You will want to seek medical care for your child to prevent complications, reduce any pain and discomfort, and help them regain a full range of motion.
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Complications from Torticollis
Prompt care can reduce the risk of complications from torticollis, although some related conditions may occur regardless of how quickly the child receives a diagnosis. The following sections detail possible torticollis complications.
Positional Plagiocephaly
Babies with torticollis are at an increased risk of positional plagiocephaly, a condition that causes them to develop a flat spot on the head. This occurs because babies with torticollis may struggle to turn their heads even once they are old enough to gain head control. Flat spots may require babies to wear a helmet to help reshape the head.
Visual Differences
Babies may develop a lump in the neck, or the muscles on one side of the neck may appear larger. Over time, facial asymmetry may also occur. All of these symptoms should go away as the torticollis improves.
Hip Dysplasia
Developmental dysplasia of the hip is another complication related to torticollis. It is caused by the same type of abnormal positions in the womb as torticollis, so babies at risk for one are likely at risk for the other. This condition may require bracing or surgery to improve and normalize mobility.
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Torticollis and Birth Injury Legal Action
Your baby’s torticollis diagnosis may support a medical malpractice case if there is evidence that negligence before or during the delivery caused this birth injury. This may include the doctor failing to recognize this condition or the potential for this condition and taking steps to prevent it.
If you believe you may have a birth injury case, you can discuss your claim with a birth injury lawyer who represents families in your state. An attorney can evaluate the factors in your case to determine if it has merit and help you take legal action. Your payout from a personal injury claim could include compensation for:
- Medical care costs.
- Time you took away from work for your child’s medical care.
- Any related out-of-pocket expenses.
- The pain and suffering your child endured.
Every state has time limits on how long you have to file a birth injury lawsuit. Your attorney can explain this and other laws related to your case and ensure you meet the necessary deadlines.
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Speak with Our Team About Your Birth Injury Case
At the Birth Injury Lawyers Group, our team can review your case for free. We have someone available to speak with you about your child’s birth injury, what caused it, and your legal right to hold the doctor or hospital responsible. If we are able to accept your case, we will also:
- Identify the liable party or parties.
- Determine how medical negligence caused your child’s injury.
- Obtain the necessary medical records and other evidence.
- Enlist the help of a medical expert who can support your claim.
Call (800) 222-9529 today to get started with your complimentary case review. We can explain your legal options based on the details of your claim.
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