Helping Your Baby with Torticollis

Simple activities you can incorporate into your daily routine.

Gentle Exercises to Do Together

As parents, you play a key role in helping your baby overcome torticollis. Here are some simple ways to support your baby's neck development that you can easily fit into your daily routine:

Gentle Stretching During Diaper Changes

When your baby is lying on their back:

• Place one hand softly on their shoulder

• Use your other hand to cradle their head

• Very gently guide their head away from the tight side

• Hold for a gentle count of 10-15 seconds

• Share smiles and soft words during this time

• Repeat this stretch about 5 times during diaper changes

Use Tummy Time to Strengthen your baby's neck muscles

Encourage your baby to look both ways:

• Place colorful toys or yourself on the side your baby doesn't typically favor

• Start with just 1-2 minutes several times throughout the day

• Gradually increase the time as your baby gets stronger

• Always stay with your baby during tummy time to offer encouragement

• Check out our comprehensive tummy time guide for many more ideas to make it fun for you and your baby

Thoughtful Positioning Throughout the Day

Simple adjustments to how you position your baby can make a big difference:

• When holding your baby, position them so they naturally want to turn away from their preferred side

• When they are awake, arrange their play area so there are interesting things to look at (like mobiles or you entering the room) on the non-preferred side

Carrying Your Baby in Helpful Ways

Try these holding positions that naturally encourage head turning:

• Football hold (tucked under your arm with their head in your hand)

• Side-lying positions that prompt them to look up at you and lengthen the tight side

A Gentle Reminder

Always choose moments when your baby is calm and alert for these activities. These exercises should feel like special bonding times—never force any movement. Consistent practice with lots of smiles and encouragement works best. Avoid trying to stretch too far or too fast.

Remember, these home exercises are best learned and performed under professional guidance. Our pediatric occupational therapy team is always here to answer questions and show you how to make these movements even more effective for your unique baby.

If you'd like personalized support for your baby's torticollis, we're just a phone call away!