The Effects of Weight Shift Training on the Symmetry of Upper Extremity Weight Bearing in the Prone Position in Infants With Congenital Muscular Torticollis

The Effects of Weight Shift Training on the Symmetry of Upper Extremity Weight Bearing in the Prone Position in Infants With Congenital Muscular Torticollis

Congenital muscular torticollis(CMT) is a common musculoskeletal condition in infancy that may result in asymmetrical posture and weight-bearing patterns, limited cervical range of motion, and delayed motor development. This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of weight shift training on upper extremity weight-bearing symmetry in infants with CMT.

A total of 30 infants aged 6 to 12 months diagnosed with CMT will be randomly assigned to either an experimental group(n = 15) or a control group(n = 15). The experimental group will receive weight shift training in prone and sitting positions in addition to stretching exercises, while the control group will receive stretching exercises only. Both groups will participate in 30-minute intervention sessions three times per week for eight weeks.

The primary outcome is upper extremity weight-bearing symmetry, which will be assessed using the Balancia software system. Secondary outcomes include motor development assessed by the Alberta Infant Motor Scale(AIMS), head tilt angle, and passive cervical rotation range of motion. The findings of this study may provide evidence regarding the effectiveness of weight shift training in improving postural symmetry and motor function in infants with congenital muscular torticollis.

Congenital muscular torticollis(CMT) is a musculoskeletal condition characterized by unilateral shortening or tightness of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, resulting in head tilt, limited cervical range of motion, and postural asymmetry. Infants with CMT frequently demonstrate asymmetrical weight bearing patterns.

Early physical therapy interventions, including stretching exercises, are widely used to improve cervical mobility and reduce postural asymmetry. However, interventions specifically targeting symmetrical weight bearing and postural control may provide additional benefits by promoting more symmetrical development in functional activities.

Weight shift training encourages active transfer of body weight while maintaining postural stability. Improved weight bearing symmetry may contribute to more efficient motor development and functional movement patterns in infants with CMT.

The purpose of this study is to determine whether the addition of weight shift training to conventional stretching exercises improves upper extremity weight-bearing symmetry, motor development, head posture, and cervical mobility in infants with congenital muscular torticollis. The findings of this study may provide evidence for the clinical effectiveness of incorporating weight shift training into rehabilitation programs for infants with CMT.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed with congenital muscular torticollis by a physician
• Head tilt angle of 15 degrees or greater and limitation of passive cervical rotation range of motion
• Able to independently maintain the prone position and demonstrate asymmetrical upper extremity weight bearing

Exclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed with non-muscular torticollis, including postural torticollis or ocular torticollis
• Presence of congenital cervical spine abnormalities or neurological complications
• Any medical condition that may interfere with participation in the intervention or outcome assessments