Monday, August 26, 2013

Football Carry Stretch for Right Torticollis

The football carry stretch exercise stretches the tight neck muscle on the right side of Kellyn's neck that contributes to her right torticollis.  In this post, I included both a YouTube video tutorial and written step-by-step instructions below.

Video Tutorial:




Step-by-Step Written Instructions:

1.  Place baby across your body and position her so she is facing outwards with her right side of body closest to the ground.

2.  Put your left arm between her legs and bring it across her trunk.

3.  Place your left hand on baby's right shoulder.  Apply gentle pressure downwards on her right shoulder.

Baby with right torticollis being held in a football hold stretch

4.  In a very gentle and cautious manner, take your right hand and tilt her head upwards.  This should bring her left ear to her left shoulder.

5.  If possible, stand in front of a mirror or place yourself in front of something visually stimulating for her.  This will help distract her.

Notes: Babies with left torticollis would do this exercise leaning towards their left, with their left side closest to the ground.  In addition, do NOT do this stretch if baby actively resists because you could unintentionally be strengthening the side of her neck that doesn't need to be strengthened.

Disclaimer: I am not a physical therapist or medical professional.  If you wish to do any of these physical therapy exercises on your own child, you should first seek approval from your child's physical therapist.  Click here for full disclaimer.