A baby who always looks one way, tilts their head, or will only feed comfortably on one side may have torticollis, a tightness in the neck muscles that often starts before or during birth. At Activate Chiropractic in Poway, Dr. Derek Libby provides gentle, neurologically focused care for infants with torticollis and the latching difficulties that often come with it. This page covers what torticollis is, why it happens, how chiropractic care may help, and what to expect at a first visit. It is part of our care for infants and children.
Chiropractic Care for Infant Torticollis in Poway
What torticollis is
Torticollis is a condition where a baby’s neck muscles become tight, causing the head to tilt to one side or making it difficult for them to turn their head evenly. This can show up as a strong preference for looking one way, difficulty breastfeeding on both sides, or discomfort when lying in certain positions. When torticollis is present, it often leads to latching challenges since the baby may struggle to find a comfortable position to feed.
Why torticollis happens
Torticollis often develops before or during birth. Babies may experience neck strain from being in a tight position in the womb, from birth trauma, or from the use of interventions such as forceps or vacuum extraction. Even a normal delivery can sometimes leave muscles tight or joints restricted. Because feeding requires coordinated movement of the head, jaw, and neck, these restrictions can make nursing or bottle feeding more difficult. Babies with torticollis may also become fussy or frustrated during feeding simply because certain positions feel uncomfortable.
How chiropractic care can help a baby with torticollis
Pediatric chiropractic care offers a safe and gentle way to support infants with torticollis and latching challenges. Because babies’ spines and nervous systems are still developing, chiropractors trained in pediatric care use very light, specific techniques tailored for infants.
The focus is on reducing areas of tension, improving mobility in the neck and spine, and supporting healthy nervous system function. When the cervical vertebrae or nearby muscles are restricted, it can interfere with a baby’s ability to turn their head, feed comfortably, or relax in different positions. Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore balance so the body can function more smoothly.
Chiropractic care may help by:
Easing muscle tightness: Gentle adjustments and soft tissue work can reduce tension in the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) and surrounding muscles.
Encouraging proper alignment: Light corrections in the cervical spine help restore smooth motion, reducing strain and allowing more natural head movement.
Supporting nervous system function: Improving spinal motion enhances the body’s ability to coordinate feeding and movement.
Providing at-home strategies: Parents are often given simple stretches or positioning tips to encourage continued improvement between visits.
Parents frequently notice positive changes such as easier feeding on both sides, improved head and neck movement, reduced fussiness, and greater overall comfort. These improvements not only make day-to-day care smoother but also support healthy growth and development.
Chiropractic care does not replace your pediatrician. If your baby has a fever, is vomiting, is not gaining weight, or you are worried for any reason, please see your pediatrician first.
What to expect at your baby's first visit
Your first visit starts with a conversation. Dr. Libby will ask about your pregnancy, the birth, feeding, sleep, and what your baby’s hard moments look like. He then does a gentle, hands-on assessment of your baby’s spine and nervous system. Adjustments use light fingertip pressure, and most babies stay calm or even fall asleep during care.
Before you leave, you will know what he found, what he recommends, and how often he would like to see your baby. You do not need a referral, and we are glad to work alongside your pediatrician.
Frequently asked questions about chiropractic care for torticollis
Is chiropractic care safe for a baby with torticollis?
Infant adjustments are nothing like adult adjustments. There is no twisting or cracking. Dr. Libby uses light fingertip pressure, about the amount you would use to check whether a peach is ripe. He has advanced training in pediatric and prenatal chiropractic care and is Webster certified.
What does an infant adjustment feel like?
Most parents say it looks like a gentle touch. Babies often stay relaxed, and many fall asleep during or after the visit. If your baby fusses, we pause, let you soothe them, and continue when they are ready.
Can chiropractic care help with breastfeeding and latching?
Often, yes. When a baby can turn and tilt their head comfortably to both sides, feeding positions that used to be a struggle can become easier. Dr. Libby also shares positioning tips to use at home between visits.
Should we also see a physical therapist?
Chiropractic care and physical therapy work well together for torticollis. If your pediatrician has referred you to physical therapy, keep that appointment; the two approaches complement each other.
Do we need a referral from our pediatrician?
No referral is needed. We encourage families to keep their pediatrician informed, and we are happy to work alongside them.
Related care at Activate Chiropractic
Book your baby's first visit
At Activate Chiropractic, our gentle, neurologically focused approach is designed to help infants with torticollis and latching difficulties move comfortably, develop normally, and feel more at ease, while giving parents guidance and confidence in supporting their child’s growth. Activate Chiropractic is at 12237 Poway Road in Poway, serving families from Poway, Rancho Bernardo, 4S Ranch, Scripps Ranch, Carmel Mountain Ranch, and Ramona.
Prefer to talk first? Call us at 858-486-3400.