Practical Assessment and Treatment of Torticollis

Course Description

This one-day course is a discussion of current evaluation and treatment of infant torticollis. It is designed for Physical and Occupational Therapists and Assistants. Emphasis is on a problem solving approach to develop individualized treatment plans for each unique child. The course also includes discussion on research, anatomy and normal development.

Course Details: 

Lecture material will cover:

  • Etiology
  • Brief review of underlying anatomy and kinesiology
  • Review of normal development as related to torticollis and as assessment
  • Literature review
  • Evaluation and treatment, emphasizing and individualized problem-solving approach
  • Discussion of specific cases, as time allows

At the conclusion of the course participants will be able to:

  1. Discuss the etiology of Torticollis
  2. Understand the anatomy, kinesiology and aspects of development as related to torticollis
  3. Review current literature
  4. Develop comprehensive evaluation skills and complete a differential diagnosis
  5. Implement treatment techniques and develop an individualized home exercise program

Treatment labs will be included. Participants should bring comfortable clothing for treatment labs. In addition, some techniques will be practiced on a doll. Please bring a doll that is at least 18-24 inches long. You will use these dolls for parent training and will be encouraged to use them in your practice. The course includes home exercise program handouts for use in your clinical practice.

Course outline

8:00 AM Definition and etiology
8:30 AM Anatomy and kinesiology as related to torticollis
9:00 AM Normal development as related to torticollis
10:00 AM Break
10:15 AM Normal development as related to torticollis
10:45 AM Assessment and differential diagnosis
Noon Lunch
1:00 PM Treatment and home exercise program development – with labs
2:30 PM Break
2:45 PM Treatment and home exercise program development – with labs
4:15 PM Discussion
5:00 PM Adjourn

Presenter

Anne Pleva, PT, DPT, PCS

Anne Pleva has been a practicing pediatric physical therapist for over 20 years and is a clinical assistant professor at Marquette University. She has been teaching this evidence-based, comprehensive course on torticollis since 2008. Anne also served as a lab instructor for Neuro-Developmental Treatment Courses. Her continuing education and experience includes: Neurodevelopmental Treatment, taping, biofeedback, electrical stimulation, infant massage, casting, general movement assessment, orthotics and use of adaptive equipment. Anne completed her DPT through the University of Texas Medical Branch in 2014.