Course Description:

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 head shape, postural and motor development. Current evidence-based clinical pathways
and guidelines for management of torticollis, infant head shape, and related movement impairments,
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 referrals and secondary specialist consultations
will be presented. Emphasis on home exercise programs and effective strategies to team with parents
will be explored. Introduction to long-term follow-up and implementing annual check-ups will be
incorporated throughout the 2 days.
Learning opportunities for therapists and medical professionals involved in pediatrics will transpire
through lecture, case reports, group problem solving, video review, and lab practicum. The extensive
use of pictures and videos throughout the 2 days of intensive course materials will allow participates
to problem solve and identify movement and tissue impairments related to the diagnosis of torticollis,
providing functional ways to evaluate and treat.