How to prepare for a video visit about Torticollis (Acute Wry Neck) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Torticollis, also known as acute wry neck, is a condition where a child's neck muscles tighten, causing the head to tilt or turn to one side. It can cause discomfort and limit neck movement. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help assess symptoms and guide care. During the visit, the provider will ask about your child's symptoms, observe neck movement, and may suggest simple exercises or treatments. Preparing for the visit helps make the appointment effective and safe. Remember, telemedicine can help with initial evaluation and advice but cannot replace urgent in-person care if serious symptoms occur. Always seek emergency care if your child has severe pain, difficulty breathing, or weakness. This guide helps families prepare for a telemedicine visit about torticollis in children, including what to expect, how to prepare, and when to seek immediate care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe neck pain that worsens or is unrelieved by simple measures — seek emergency care immediately.
• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking — seek emergency care immediately.
• Weakness, numbness, or loss of movement in arms or legs — seek emergency care immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of neck stiffness and pain in children.
• Guidance on home care and gentle neck exercises.
• Advice on when to seek in-person care or emergency services.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations with severe pain or neurological symptoms.
• Physical treatments requiring hands-on therapy or imaging tests.
• Diagnosing underlying causes needing in-person examination or hospital care.

What is Torticollis (Acute Wry Neck)?

Torticollis is when a child's neck muscles tighten on one side, causing the head to tilt or turn. It often happens suddenly and may cause pain or stiffness. It can be due to muscle strain, injury, or other causes. Most cases improve with simple care and time.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

During the video visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, such as when the neck started to tilt, pain level, and any recent injuries or illnesses. They will observe your child's neck movement on camera and may ask you to help gently move the child's head. The provider may suggest exercises or recommend treatments to ease discomfort.

How to Prepare for the Video Visit

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When to Seek In-Person or Emergency Care

Some signs mean your child needs urgent medical attention. These include:

If you notice these, seek emergency care immediately.

Tips for After the Video Visit

Follow the provider's advice carefully. This may include:

If symptoms do not improve or get worse, schedule an in-person visit.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room for the video visit.
• Position your child so their head and neck are visible on camera.
• Have a list of your child's symptoms and when they started.
• Prepare a list of current medications your child is taking.
• Ensure a stable internet connection and a charged device.
• Have a family member or caregiver nearby to assist during the visit if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions on exercises and pain relief.
• Monitor your child's symptoms for improvement or worsening.
• Keep track of any new symptoms and report them if needed.
• Schedule an in-person visit if symptoms do not improve or worsen.
• Seek emergency care if any red flag symptoms appear.

FAQs

What causes torticollis in children?

Torticollis can be caused by muscle strain, injury, or sometimes by infections or other medical conditions. Often, it happens suddenly and improves with simple care.

Can torticollis go away on its own?

Many cases of torticollis improve on their own or with gentle exercises and care. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, medical evaluation is important.

Are there exercises I can do at home to help my child?

Yes, healthcare providers may suggest gentle neck stretches and exercises during the video visit. Always follow their guidance carefully to avoid injury.

When should I take my child to the emergency room?

If your child has severe neck pain, difficulty breathing or swallowing, weakness or numbness in limbs, or a high fever with neck stiffness, seek emergency care immediately.

Is torticollis contagious?

No, torticollis itself is not contagious. It is usually caused by muscle issues or injury, not by infections that spread from person to person.

Sources

1. Torticollis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Torticollis in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Acute Neck Pain (Wry Neck) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Torticollis: Clinical Features and Management — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child's symptoms are severe or worsening, seek immediate medical attention.