Feeding time is one of the most important—and intimate—parts of caring for an infant. Whether breastfed, bottle-fed, or a combination of both, feeding supports not only nourishment but also bonding, comfort, and early development. When feeding challenges arise, they can be stressful for families and confusing to navigate. One condition that is often closely linked to feeding difficulties is torticollis.

Understanding how torticollis can affect feeding—and how feeding positions can influence neck and body development—can help parents feel empowered and confident in supporting their baby’s growth.

What Is Torticollis?

Torticollis, often referred to as congenital muscular torticollis, occurs when an infant’s neck muscles—most commonly the sternocleidomastoid muscle—are tight or shortened on one side. This causes the baby to prefer turning their head to one direction and tilting it to the opposite side.

Torticollis can develop for several reasons, including:

Positioning in the womb
A difficult or assisted delivery
Limited movement early in life
Prolonged time in one position after birth

Left untreated, torticollis can impact an infant’s ability to move symmetrically, explore their environment, and develop strength and coordination.

How Torticollis Can Affect Feeding

Feeding requires coordinated movement of the neck, jaw, tongue, and trunk. When a baby has tightness or limited range of motion in the neck, feeding can become more challenging than it appears at first glance.

Common feeding-related signs associated with torticollis may include:

Difficulty latching on one side but not the other
Preference for feeding from one breast or bottle position
Fussiness or discomfort during feeds
Fatigue while feeding
Poor milk transfer or slow weight gain
Increased gas, reflux, or spit-up

Because babies with torticollis often prefer to turn their head one way, feeding positions that require them to rotate in the non-preferred direction may feel uncomfortable or even painful.

The Role of Feeding Positioning

Feeding positions play a powerful role in either reinforcing or improving a baby’s neck mobility. When infants are consistently fed in the same position, especially if that position supports their preferred head turn, it can unintentionally contribute to continued tightness.

Encouraging symmetry and variety during feeding can help support healthy neck movement and body awareness.

Helpful strategies include:

Alternating arms during bottle feeding to encourage head turning to both sides
Adjusting breastfeeding positions to support the less-preferred side
Using side-lying or football holds when appropriate
Ensuring the baby’s head, neck, and trunk are well supported and aligned

Small adjustments in positioning can make a meaningful difference over time.

Torticollis, Oral Function, and Feeding Skills

The neck and oral structures are closely connected. Limited neck mobility can affect jaw alignment, tongue movement, and overall oral motor coordination. This may contribute to challenges such as:

Weak or inconsistent sucking patterns
Shallow latch
Increased air intake during feeds
Difficulty transitioning between feeding methods

When these challenges are present, addressing neck mobility is often an important part of improving feeding efficiency and comfort.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Early identification and treatment of torticollis can significantly improve outcomes for both feeding and overall development. Pediatric physical therapy plays a key role in addressing torticollis through gentle, play-based interventions.

A physical therapist may focus on:

Stretching and strengthening neck muscles
Improving range of motion
Promoting symmetrical movement patterns
Supporting tummy time and motor development
Educating caregivers on positioning and handling techniques

When feeding concerns are present, collaboration with lactation consultants, occupational therapists, or speech therapists may also be beneficial.

What Parents Can Do at Home

Parents are a vital part of their baby’s progress. Simple daily habits can help support neck mobility and feeding success:

Vary feeding positions and sides
Encourage tummy time during awake periods
Change the direction your baby faces in the crib or during play
Engage your baby with toys and voices from both sides
Watch for signs of discomfort or fatigue during feeds

Consistency and gentle encouragement go a long way in supporting healthy development.

When to Seek Support

If your baby shows persistent feeding difficulties, a strong head-turn preference, or visible head or facial asymmetry, it’s important to speak with your pediatrician. A referral to pediatric therapy services can help identify underlying issues and create a personalized plan for your baby.

Early support not only improves feeding experiences but also lays the foundation for healthy movement, posture, and development in the months and years ahead.

Supporting Your Baby’s Growth—One Feed at a Time

Feeding should be a nurturing and comfortable experience for both baby and caregiver. When torticollis is present, understanding the connection between feeding and neck mobility can make a world of difference. With early intervention, thoughtful positioning, and a supportive care team, infants with torticollis can thrive—developing strong bodies, confident feeding skills, and joyful connections with their families.

Learn more

Infant Feeding and Torticollis: Understanding the Connection and How to Support Your Baby