Prevalence of Torticollis Among Infants and Toddlers Presenting at Abia State Specialist Hospital Umuahia

Torticollis, a postural condition characterised by asymmetric head tilt and rotation due to sternocleidomastoid muscle tightening or bony cervical anomalies, is among the most common musculoskeletal presentations in infant physiotherapy clinics. Early detection and management are essential to prevent secondary facial and cranial asymmetries. The epidemiology of infant torticollis in Nigerian populations is poorly characterised, limiting the design of targeted screening protocols. This study aims to determine the prevalence of torticollis and describe its anatomical subtypes among infants and toddlers attending the paediatric outpatient department and physiotherapy unit of Abia State Specialist Hospital, Umuahia, South East Nigeria. Clinical assessment using the standard physical examination protocol, including cervical range of motion measurement and palpation of the sternocleidomastoid, will be conducted by a trained physiotherapist. Data on birth history, delivery method, and birth weight will also be collected to explore aetiological associations. The study expects to establish a prevalence estimate for torticollis in this age group and identify risk factors that can guide early postnatal screening in tertiary health facilities across the South East zone.

Keywords: torticollis, sternocleidomastoid, infant, cervical anatomy, Abia State