Torticollis is a condition in which a child's head is tilted. It is typically caused by either a tightening of the muscles of the neck, flattening of the back of the head or a combination of the two. The condition often refers to tightness of a specific muscle which pulls the head sideways toward the shoulder, turns the face toward the opposite shoulder and brings the head forward on the chest. Habitually spending time in this position frequently causes other neck muscles to tighten.

Torticollis limits a child's ability to turn the head to see, hear and interact freely with his/her environment. Because of this, torticollis may lead to delayed cognitive development, delayed whole body awareness, weakness and difficulties with balance. Since the neurological component that directs development and balance is not impaired, children with torticollis may compensate for their head positioning and progress through their developmental stages asymmetrically. This asymmetry may cause spinal misalignment and uneven distribution of weight over the legs, leading to the development of orthopaedic problems.

For children with torticollis, it is very important that they play in all the following positions: prone (on tummy), lying on their side, sitting and supported standing. These are appropriate and necessary at any age. Encourage them to look at and interact with toys that promote rotation of the head and body to the child's non-preferred side. Set up the child's environment (i.e. orientation of toys, crib and play mat) to promote exploration toward the baby's non-preferred side.