Why Does My Baby Tilt Their Head to the Left While Sitting or Lying?

Q: Why Does My Baby Tilt Their Head to the Left While Sitting or Lying?

Hello： Your baby is six months old and has a tendency to tilt their head to the left, which can be referred to as torticollis. <br>If it is confirmed that there are no hard lumps in the neck, it is likely due to habitual positioning. <br>Although the head can be straightened and

When my baby is sitting or lying down, their head tilts slightly to the left. What could be the reason for this?

My baby is currently six months old.
When sitting or lying down, my baby's head tilts slightly to the left, and it also tilts a bit while lying down, but he can straighten his head and turns it normally from side to side.
He sleeps on both sides as well.
Could this be related to my habit of feeding him with my left hand? I also hold him with my left hand.
I checked his neck and there are no lumps, but I still worry.
Will this correct itself as he grows, or does he need to be examined? Which department should I consult? Can any moms or professionals recommend a place in Yunlin for a precise examination? I live in Tuku.
Thank you.

Xue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/08/03

Dr. He Shenglong reply Pediatrics

Hello: Your baby is six months old and has a tendency to tilt their head to the left, which can be referred to as torticollis.
If it is confirmed that there are no hard lumps in the neck, it is likely due to habitual positioning.
Although the head can be straightened and turned normally to both sides, if no corrective measures are taken, it may become more pronounced over time.
Your baby's condition does not seem too severe.
You can pay attention to corrective methods, such as feeding with your right hand, holding the baby on your left side, and attracting their attention with sounds and visuals from the right side.
When they sleep, you can place a small pillow to prevent them from tilting to the left, and you can sleep on their right side.
Over time, this should help with natural correction.
If you feel the condition is severe or if there are any lumps in the neck, it is advisable to consult a rehabilitation specialist (physical therapist), preferably at a larger hospital.
You may want to call ahead for inquiries.
Thank you for your message!

Reply Date: 2007/08/03

More Info

It's understandable to be concerned when you notice your baby tilting their head to one side, especially as a new parent. At six months old, your baby is still developing their motor skills and muscle strength, and it's common for infants to have slight head tilting or preference for one side. This behavior can be attributed to several factors, including muscle tone, feeding habits, and even the way they are held.

From your description, it seems that your baby can turn their head freely and has no stiffness or hard lumps in the neck, which is a positive sign. The fact that they can also sleep on both sides indicates that there is likely no significant underlying issue. However, the consistent tilting to the left could suggest a preference that may need some attention to prevent any potential developmental concerns.

One possibility is that your feeding habits, such as consistently using your left hand to feed, could contribute to this head tilt. Babies often develop preferences based on their environment and the way they are held. If they are frequently positioned in a way that encourages looking to one side, this could lead to a habitual tilt. It's important to encourage your baby to look in both directions during playtime and feeding to promote balanced muscle development.

In terms of whether this will correct itself as your baby grows, many infants do outgrow these habits naturally as they develop more control over their neck and shoulder muscles. However, if the head tilt persists or if you notice any other concerning symptoms, it would be wise to consult a pediatrician. They can assess your baby's overall development and determine if any further evaluation is necessary.

If you decide to seek medical advice, you would typically start with your pediatrician, who can provide a thorough examination and refer you to a specialist if needed. In your case, a pediatric neurologist or a pediatric physical therapist could be appropriate if there are concerns about muscle tone or coordination.

In the meantime, you can help your baby by encouraging them to engage in activities that promote neck strength and balance. Tummy time is particularly beneficial, as it helps strengthen the neck and shoulder muscles. You can also try to alternate the side you hold your baby on while feeding or playing to encourage them to turn their head in both directions.

As for finding a reliable clinic or specialist in Yunlin, I recommend checking with local hospitals or pediatric clinics for referrals. You can also ask your pediatrician for recommendations, as they often have connections with specialists in the area.

In summary, while a slight head tilt can be common in infants, it's essential to monitor the situation and encourage balanced muscle development. If you have ongoing concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for further guidance. Your proactive approach to your baby's health is commendable, and seeking professional advice will help ensure that your baby develops optimally.

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