Infant torticollis does go away on its own in some cases. However, more serious instances of torticollis may require medical intervention, including multiple treatment sessions over a period of several months.
Torticollis is not uncommon in newborns. Therefore, the question, “Does infant torticollis go away?” is not an unusual one. Speaking to a medical specialist can help you better understand the treatment options for your child’s case of torticollis.
Understanding Torticollis
Torticollis, also known as wryneck, occurs when the muscles on one side of a baby’s neck are tighter than those on the other side. This condition can result in pain and limit the range of motion in the baby’s neck. However, many cases of torticollis do not cause the sufferer any significant discomfort.
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How Infants Develop Torticollis
There is no clear answer to why some babies become afflicted with torticollis, but there are theories. Many believe that cramping of the fetus within the womb could be a factor. A baby’s neck may also suffer damage in a breech birth or from the use of forceps or vacuum devices during delivery.
Torticollis Warning Signs
Parents may be able to detect when their child is suffering from torticollis if they know what to look for. Anyone who believes their baby is suffering from torticollis should consult a physician to get a diagnosis and begin discussing treatment. The key symptoms a baby with torticollis might display include:
- Preference for one breast and refusal to switch sides when breastfeeding.
- Tilting the head to only one side.
- Inability to turn the neck properly or becoming frustrated when trying to do so.
- Looking over the same shoulder, rather than turning the head to follow your movements.
- Flat Head Syndrome. As the name suggests, this syndrome involves the flattened appearance of the baby’s head, either on one side or on the back of the skull.
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Treatments for Infant Torticollis
Depending on the severity of the condition, there is a range of treatments you may be able to consider for your child’s torticollis. For example, exercises can help ease the symptoms of torticollis, either by increasing the muscle strength or flexibility in the baby’s neck. Many times, parents can complete simple calisthenic routines at home. In cases where the symptoms are more severe, extensive physical therapy with the help of a specialist may be necessary.
Another simple remedy is the use of heating devices and gentle massages in the affected area. Injections of Botulinum toxin into the neck can also relax the muscles, but you must repeat the injections every three to four months. Fewer treatments may be necessary when taken in conjunction with oral medication.
In extreme cases, surgery is sometimes necessary. One procedure involves cutting the nerves that control the contraction of the neck muscles. Another involves deep brain stimulation, which is an invasive surgery that sends a wire into the infant’s brain. Afterward, this wire sends electrical pulses to the area of the brain that controls muscle contraction in the neck.
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Birth Injury Lawyers Representing Torticollis Victims
Here at the Birth Injury Lawyers Group, our attorneys are here to help you fight for compensation when an act of medical negligence caused your baby a birth injury. Over the years, many cases of torticollis were proven to be the direct result of medical malpractice. When a medical professional fails to fulfill the duty of care regarding your pregnancy and delivery, you may qualify to pursue compensation for your pain and suffering and any resulting medical costs.
Our law firm offers many legal services to assist with your case. We aim to help you by:
- Providing general legal counsel.
- Investigating the root cause of your case to prove liability.
- Representing your case during civil proceedings.
- Gathering evidence of your pain and suffering.
- Assigning a value to your case.
- Working on settlement negotiations.
If you find yourself asking, “Does infant torticollis go away?” our team at the Birth Injury Lawyers Group wants to be there to help you fight for justice. You do not have to go through this alone.
You can get started today by reaching out to our firm about your free case review. Speak with a team member at the Birth Injury Lawyers Group now by dialing (800) 222-9529.
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