6. Treatment of Muscular Torticollis in Infants: Passive Stretching vs. Total Motion Release

Abstract

Muscular torticollis is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition that affects the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) of many infants and children. If caught early, the condition is easily treated; however, leaving it untreated can result in many, more severe secondary impairments. Although the etiology of muscular torticollis varies, the varying forms are most often treated by using a passive stretching technique and, in some cases, orthotic devices. Traditional passive stretching and positioning has proven largely effective in treating the condition; however, it can be difficult to complete this routine, particularly if the infant is resisting in any way. In recent years, the total motion release (TMR) technique has gained attention as a more effective treatment that focuses on the entire body rather than simply focusing on the weakened portion of the neck. The TMR approach views the body as an interconnected system, with no single area operating in isolation. Although the theories behind TMR are not new, the process and its use for treatment of torticollis are more recent. It has proven very successful in clinical settings; however currently available literature on the subject is not extensive. In this paper, the author seeks to address the benefits and weaknesses of these approaches and highlight the largely unacknowledged benefits of the total motion release approach to rehabilitating muscular torticollis.