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Assessment of the Efficacy of An Osteopathic Treatment in Infants with Biomechanical Impairments to Suckling
Published on: February 5, 2019
[Congenital torticollis]
1Université Paris Descartes, hôpital Necker-Enfants-Malades, rue de Sèvres, 149, rue de Sèvres, 75743 Paris cedex 15, France. p.wicart@nck.aphp.fr
Insights
Congenital torticollis, a common neck deformity, usually resolves by age one. Ruling out other conditions and screening for hip dislocation are crucial steps in managing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Orthopedics
- Developmental Biology
Context:
- Congenital torticollis is a frequent postural deformity in infants.
- It involves sternocleidomastoid muscle tightness, leading to head tilt.
- This condition often requires careful differential diagnosis and monitoring.
Purpose:
- To outline the typical presentation and management of congenital torticollis.
- To emphasize the importance of excluding other potential causes.
- To highlight the need for screening associated conditions like hip dysplasia.
Summary:
- Congenital torticollis, characterized by sternocleidomastoid muscle retraction, typically resolves spontaneously before one year of age.
- Key management involves parental guidance and eliminating differential diagnoses such as vertebral, neurological, ocular, or tumor-related issues.
- Mandatory screening for congenital hip dislocation is advised due to shared pathophysiology. Persistent cases beyond 18 months may warrant sternocleidomastoid muscle lengthening.
Impact:
- Provides a concise overview for healthcare providers managing infants with torticollis.
- Underscores the significance of early diagnosis and appropriate screening protocols.
- Contributes to improved patient outcomes by guiding timely interventions.
Abstract:
Congenital torticollis is a very common postural deformity, characterized by a more or less severe retraction of sternocleidomastoid muscle. Any treatment, else that "good sense" counsels given to the parents, is indicated. The evolution is spontaneously favorable in the majority of cases before the age of one year old. The elimination of differential diagnosis (vertebral and/or neurological malformations, ocular, tumor) is the key-point. Screening of congenital hip dislocation is mandatory because the physiopathology is the same in both diseases. A remaining torticolis after 18 months of age may be an indication to sternocleidomastoid muscle lengthening.
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