Chiropractic Care for Torticollis in Olympia, Washington: How Gentle Adjustments Can Help at Every Age
Have you ever woken up with a stiff neck and found it painful to turn your head? That frustrating discomfort could be a sign of torticollis, a condition that affects both children and adults. At Tanasse Chiropractic, we regularly help families throughout Olympia, Washington, and the surrounding areas find relief through gentle, effective chiropractic care.
Chiropractic Care for Torticollis in Olympia, Washington
Whether it’s a baby struggling to turn their head while nursing or an adult who can’t look over their shoulder while driving, torticollis can impact daily life in more ways than you’d expect. Thankfully, chiropractic care offers a drug-free, hands-on solution to relieve tension, restore mobility, and support long-term healing.
What is Torticollis?
Torticollis (sometimes called “wry neck”) is a condition where the muscles in the neck become tight or imbalanced, causing the head to tilt to one side. It can be painful for adults and older children, especially if it comes on suddenly after sleeping in an awkward position, sitting too long at a computer, or straining the neck during a workout.
In infants, torticollis often develops in utero or shortly after birth. This form is called congenital torticollis, and while it’s typically not painful, it can affect a baby’s ability to nurse or turn their head equally to both sides - leading to flattening of the head (plagiocephaly), developmental imbalances, and more noticeable issues as they grow.
How Chiropractic Care Helps Adults and Children with Torticollis
At Tanasse Chiropractic, we take a whole-body approach to care that’s tailored to each patient’s age, stage, and unique needs. Chiropractic care for torticollis often includes:
Gentle adjustments to realign the spine and relieve tension in the neck
Soft tissue therapy to reduce inflammation and tightness
Stretching and mobility exercises to improve range of motion
Postural education to prevent recurrence, especially for adults who work at desks or drive frequently
These techniques can help reduce pain, restore normal movement, and prevent long-term complications from untreated torticollis. For infants and toddlers, these gentle approaches can also support proper motor development and reduce the risk of lasting head shape changes.
Meet Dr. Olivia: Pediatric Chiropractor in Olympia, Washington
We’re proud to have Dr. Olivia as part of our care team at Tanasse Chiropractic. With specialized training in pediatric chiropractic techniques, Dr. Olivia works closely with families across Olympia and surrounding communities to support healthy growth and development from the very beginning.
When it comes to treating torticollis in babies, Dr. Olivia uses gentle, hands-on techniques that are safe, calming, and highly effective. She also takes the time to educate parents on home stretches, tummy time positioning, and other ways to help their little ones thrive.
If torticollis is left untreated in infancy, the tightness and imbalance in the neck can lead to asymmetrical crawling patterns, delayed milestones, and even long-term changes in head and facial shape. That’s why early intervention is key!
Signs of Torticollis to Watch For
If you or your child are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it might be time to schedule an evaluation with a chiropractor:
In Infants:
Tilted head to one side
Preference for breastfeeding on one side only
Flat spot on one side of the head
Difficulty turning the head evenly
Fussiness when lying on the back or during tummy time
In Older Children and Adults:
Stiffness or pain in the neck and shoulders
Limited range of motion when turning the head
Head tilt or uneven posture
Recurring headaches or upper back tension
Trouble looking over the shoulder while driving
We’re here to support the whole family - whether it’s a newborn with feeding challenges or an adult with recurring neck pain. We offer chiropractic care in Olympia, Washington and the surrounding areas that’s compassionate, thorough, and rooted in real results.
If you suspect torticollis may be affecting you or your child, don’t wait. Early chiropractic care can make a big difference, especially in babies and toddlers. We’re happy to answer your questions, walk you through what to expect, and create a customized care plan that fits your life.
