OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical course and to compare the effectiveness of physiotherapeutic treatment performed daily or once a week in newborns and infants with congenital torticollis. METHODS: 47 patients with congenital torticollis were assisted at the Physiotherapy and Pediatric Surgery Services of the Clinical Hospital of Campinas University. The following data were retrospectively collected: maternal and neonatal history, clinical presentation and physiotherapeutic treatment classified according to the frequency of the exercises. Intensive treatment was defined as sessions performed at the daycare clinic by the physiotherapist plus daily sessions performed by parents at home. Minimal treatment was defined as weekly sessions performed only by the physiotherapist at the daycare clinic, without participation of the parents. RESULTS: The demographic characteristics of the studied patients were: mean maternal age=26 years; first gestation=35 (75%); vaginal delivery=40 (85%); mean age at diagnosis =50 days. A sternomastoid nodule was felt seen in 46 (98%) patients. Diseases associated with congenital torticollis were: congenital hip dislocation=4 (8%); fracture of clavicles=2 (4%); and club feet=1 (2%). Intensive treatment was performed in 34 (72%) patients for an average of 74 days and the cure was achieved in 100%. Minimal treatment was performed in 13 (28%) for an average of 130 days and ten (77%) patients achieved cure. CONCLUSIONS: Congenital torticollis had favorable outcome in both groups. The intensive treatment was followed by higher rates of cure in smaller period of time.
congenital torticollis; physical therapy; infant newborn; prognosis
