This dynamic evolving course will concentrate on progressive, effective evaluation and treatment schemes for infants and young children with a diagnosis of torticollis with or without plagiocephaly, including challenging cases. The course is designed to provide therapists with current research and recommendations pertaining to the implications of torticollis, sleep posture and increased use of positional devices on infant postural and motor development. Current evidence-based clinical pathways and guidelines for management of torticollis, movement impairments and infant head shape, including Clinical Practice Guidelines from APTA - Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy, will be incorporated. Red flags for related early infancy and preschool diagnoses will be appraised. Current functional, clinically oriented evaluation and evidence based treatment strategies for infants and young children that can be integrated into routines and play will be provided. Diagnostic procedures and surgical intervention will be reviewed. Recommendations for follow-up and secondary specialist consultations will be presented. Emphasis on home exercise programs, effective strategies, and long term follow-up to team with parents will be explored throughout both days.
1. Identify the incidence, etiology and pathophysiology of torticollis and discuss the importance of early identification and early referral through systematic screenings and evaluations by health care providers
2. Identify the impact of torticollis on movement and associated body structures and function.
3. Problem solve current evidenced based treatment regimes for torticollis
4. Identify the impact on head shape that may be present with a diagnosis of torticollis. Discuss guidelines, available research and problem solve solutions to manage including helmet criteria and treatment
5. Discuss the relationship of “the change in sleep posture,” effects of increased positional devices, and environmental influences on postural development
6. Relate current research and recommendations pertaining to SIDS and the efficacy of back to sleep. Review diagnoses related to the health policy change
7. Collaborate and cultivate parent/caregiver’s understanding of the child’s health condition, interventions, and compliance to home education/therapy program. and follow-up recommendations.
8. Establish individualized goals and incorporate family centered evidenced based treatment regimes as part of their home education/therapy program.
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