Background. Asymmetry in infancy is a diagnosis with a large spectrum of features, expressing an abnormal shape of parts of the body or unequal postures and movements, which might be structural and/or functional, with localized or generalized expression. Purpose: The purpose of the present study is to highlight different therapeutic aspects of the most occurring asymmetries in infancy: congenital muscular torticollis, positional torticollis and plagiocephaly, based on best evidence in current literature. Results: A flow chart is presented showing different pathways in therapeutic strategies, such as physical therapy, orthotic devices (helmet treatment and Dynamic Orthotic Cranioplasty) and surgery. Conclusion: It is concluded that there are different views towards management on torticollis and plagiocephaly. A systematic therapeutic management to evaluate these asymmetries is indicated. The presented therapeutic flow chart might serve as a basis in order to achieve uniformity in therapeutic thinking and performance.

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doi.org/10.1080/13638490500037904, hdl.handle.net/1765/31090
Developmental Neurorehabilitation
Erasmus MC: University Medical Center Rotterdam

van Vlimmeren, L., Helders, P., van Adrichem, L., & Engelbert, R. (2006). Torticollis and plagiocephaly in infancy: Therapeutic strategies. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 9(1), 40–46. doi:10.1080/13638490500037904