Home Exercises for Left Torticollis

Elizabeth Bakken PT DPT

Exercises to stretch left sternocleidomastoid muscle with right side-bending, left rotation,

and extension.

Stretch left side of neck by bringing babies right ear to right shoulder. Hold x30-60sec.

Repeat 2-3x per day, as tolerated.

Stretch with head rotation towards left shoulder. Can use hands to hold stretch or

encourage rotation with baby looking at a toy.

Hold x30-60sec. Repeat 2-3x per day, as

tolerated.

Encourage tummy time with head lifted up to stretch neck flexors. Toys can be used for motivation

. Maintain tummy time with head in midline or with head rotation towards left

shoulder x30-60sec.

Repeat 2-3x per day, as tolerated.

Hold your child facing away from you, in a side-lying position, with the left ear resting

against your left forearm. Put your forearm between the child’s ear and left shoulder to

help stretch the tight muscles. Place your RIGHT arm between the child’s legs to support

the body.

Hold x30-60sec. Repeat 2-3x per day, as tolerated.

We have a course that is all about Physical Therapy. It includes an entire segment on Torticollis and what parents can do to help their babies reach important milestones.