Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2020
Abstract
[Purpose] As an alternative to manual stretching, the aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of using neural/visceral manipulation as a safe and effective intervention to increase neck range of motion of infants with congenital muscular torticollis. [Participants and Methods] Ten 4-month old infants with congenital muscular torticollis received eight sessions of neural/visceral manipulation administered for 30-50 minutes without observed pain. Specific palpation techniques addressed restricted tissue areas of neck, head, trunk and extremities. Neck rotation and lateral flexion were assessed by still photography and a computer program calculating ROM angles before, immediately following, and 4 months post intervention. Motor development and social competence were monitored over time using the Alberta Infant Motor Scale and Bayley-III Social Emotional Scale. [Results] Results of analysis of variances revealed significant improvements in passive and active neck rotation and lateral flexion. Significant increases were also found on the Alberta Infant Motor Scale and Bayley-III Social-Emotional scale. [Conclusion] Neural/visceral manipulation can be used safely in infants with congenital muscular torticollis to improve neck range of motion.
Publication Title
J Phys Ther Sci
ISSN
0915-5287
Volume
32
Issue
1
First Page
7
Last Page
15
DOI
10.1589/jpts.32.7
Recommended Citation
Zollars JA, Burtner PA, Stockman G, Werbelow P, Swartzentruber J, Lowe JR. Neural and visceral manipulation in infants with congenital muscular torticollis: a feasibility study. J Phys Ther Sci. 2020 Jan;32(1):7-15. doi: 10.1589/jpts.32.7. Epub 2020 Jan 22. PMID: 32082020; PMCID: PMC7008025.
