Baby Doesn’t Turn Their Head Both Ways — How to Recognize Torticollis

CategoryPhysiology

⏱️ Reading time: 3 minutes

Medically reviewed by pediatrician and perinatal psychologist Polina Kizino

If your baby tends to turn their head to one side more often, it may be normal — but sometimes it signals torticollis. Early signs include a head tilt and chin turned the opposite way. Tummy time, position changes, and gentle exercises can help. If you're unsure, talk to your doctor — the earlier you act, the easier it is to help.

What’s Inside

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Quick takeaways

Torticollis is a common musculoskeletal condition. Signs include tilting the head to one shoulder and turning the chin to the opposite side. It’s treated with massage, exercises, and rarely surgery. Early correction leads to better outcomes.

How to support your baby’s neck movement: tummy time, encouraging head turns, switching positions in the crib and when held.

Mild movement asymmetry in the first weeks is normal. If in doubt, consult your pediatrician.

Torticollis occurs due to neck muscle issues

Torticollis (also called congenital muscular torticollis) means the baby keeps their head tilted to one side with the chin turned to the other.

It’s caused by tightness or shortening of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, which runs from the chest and collarbone to behind the ear.

Torticollis affects about 0.3–2% of newborns and is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions in infants.

Main causes include

  • Intrauterine position — most common; if baby spent time with the neck twisted or bent
  • Birth trauma — microinjury to the muscle during labor
  • Muscle hematoma — bleeding in the sternocleidomastoid from a difficult birth
  • Positional torticollis — due to consistent head position post-birth, often with flat head syndrome
  • Neurological issues — less common, but can stem from spinal or nervous system disorders

How to prevent torticollis

  • Alternate head position during sleep — keep baby on their back, but gently turn head both ways
  • Practice tummy time daily — start with a few minutes under supervision
  • Hold baby upright often — helps neck strength and head positioning
  • Stimulate turning — change crib position relative to light/sound so baby turns head both ways

When to consult a pediatrician

  • Baby always tilts head to one side
  • Baby resists turning head one way
  • There’s a lump or thickening in the neck
  • Baby’s head is becoming flattened on one side
  • Neck mobility doesn’t improve within 2–3 weeks

Early care helps correct torticollis without complications — using physiotherapy, massage, or orthotics.

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With care

Our articles are based on evidence-based medicine and reviewed by pediatricians. However, they do not replace a consultation with your doctor. Every child is unique — if you have any concerns, please consult a medical professional.

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Sources

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