Question
A parent asks whether a 6-month-old baby who always tilts their head slightly to the left when sitting needs to be corrected. The parent mentions that the baby also tilts their head to the left while sleeping and asks for assistance.
Answer
The doctor recommends taking the baby to the hospital for an examination, which may include X-rays for the doctor to review. Mild torticollis can be improved through physical therapy, but if the condition is more severe, it is advised to undergo physical therapy before the age of 2 and a half. Surgery usually requires general anesthesia, and it may not be feasible for babies too young to undergo general anesthesia. It is suggested to have an examination before the age of 3, and it is mentioned that Dr. Feng Zhang of Beijing Children’s Hospital has excellent surgical skills but requires advance appointment scheduling. Additionally, the doctor advises checking the baby’s vision, as torticollis may affect vision and lead to strabismus. The surgery takes about 40 minutes, and on the first day after surgery, the baby may not be able to move. By the third day, they can walk, and they can be discharged one week later. It is hoped that the baby will recover soon.