Neck

Torticollis in Newborns: Diagnosis and Treatment

Name: Baby Torticollis Milan: How Long It Lasts, Therapy and When to Operate
Creator: Dott. Daniele Priano
Published: 2026-01-15

Baby's head tilted to one side. Seek evaluation if neck lump or facial asymmetry. Early physical therapy Milan.

Medically reviewed: March 2026·Dott. Daniele Priano

Quick Answers

Does newborn torticollis resolve on its own?

With early physiotherapy (stretching, correct positioning), most cases of muscular torticollis resolve within the first 6-12 months of life. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to obtain the best results. Only resistant cases require surgical intervention.

Can torticollis cause skull deformity?

Yes, untreated torticollis can cause positional plagiocephaly (flattening of one side of the skull) because the baby tends to always sleep with the head turned to the same side. Physiotherapy and postural adjustments prevent or correct this deformity.

How is physiotherapy done for torticollis?

Physiotherapy includes gentle stretching of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, strengthening exercises for contralateral muscles, and positioning strategies (stimulation from the opposite side, alternating sleep position). Parents are instructed to continue exercises at home.

Congenital muscular torticollis is characterized by head tilting to one side with rotation to the opposite side. It is usually caused by shortening of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent facial asymmetries and postural problems.

👶Early Physiotherapy, Excellent Results

Congenital muscular torticollis resolves completely in almost all cases with early physiotherapy and guided home stretching exercises. The earlier you start, the better the results. Only a small percentage requires more invasive treatments, and always after attempting the conservative approach.

When to seek evaluation

Head constantly tilted to one side
Difficulty turning head in one direction
Palpable lump on neck muscle
Facial asymmetry
Plagiocephaly (asymmetric head)

What is evaluated

Head and neck range of motion
Sternocleidomastoid muscle palpation
Facial and cranial asymmetry evaluation
Hip ultrasound (often associated dysplasia)
Exclusion of vertebral causes

Treatment options

Stretching exercises and correct positioning
Specialized physical therapy
Cranial orthosis for plagiocephaly if needed
Surgical release in resistant cases

🏥

When Surgery Is Needed

La grande maggioranza dei torcicolli miogeni si risolve con la fisioterapia precoce. L'intervento chirurgico è riservato ai rari casi che non rispondono al trattamento conservativo dopo un periodo adeguato (generalmente 12-18 mesi).

🔗View surgical options for this condition →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does newborn torticollis resolve on its own?▼

Can torticollis cause skull deformity?▼

How is physiotherapy done for torticollis?▼

Important Notice: The information on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Each clinical case is unique: the appropriate treatment is determined during the specialist consultation, based on a thorough clinical examination and, where necessary, diagnostic imaging. For any doubts or concerns, please consult a specialist.