Date of Award

2007

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Peggy Mohr

Keywords

Infant; Plagiocephaly, Nonsynostotic -- diagnosis; Torticollis -- diagnosis

Abstract

As the incidence of torticollis and plagiocephaly have increased since the initiation of the Back to Sleep campaign in 1992, greater awareness of diagnosis and prevention for these conditions is imperative. The purpose of this study was to complete a chart review which identified the bIrth history risk factors and diagnostic indicators for torticollis and plagiocephaly that were documented, the variations in identification and referrals by discipline of screener, and the incidence of torticollis and plagiocephaly in infants and toddlers receiving services through a rural screening program of a midwestern state. A retrospective chart review of 125 children (birth to 3 years of age) screened by various professional disciples through a developmental screening program between July 2004 and July 2006 was completed. Of the 125 charts reviewed, 90 met the established inclusion criteria. The mean age at the initial screening was 1.92 ± 1.45 months, and the mean birth weight was 7.43 ± 1.51 pounds. Plagiocephaly was found in 8 (8.9%) and torticollis in 3 (3.3%) of infants. No significant relationships were found between risk factors (gender, vacuum assisted delivery, or prematurity) and the presence of a diagnostic indicator of torticollis or plagiocephaly. Recommendations including expansion of early screening and use of a standardized in-take form for birth details could potentially benefit future recipients of the program's services. Limitations for this study were a small sample size, lack of randomization, and missing information in the charts.

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