Assessing Congenital Muscular Torticollis Using Myotonometry: A Novel Approach

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle properties in infants with Congenital Muscular Torticollis (CMT) using myotonometry and determine its sensitivity to changes following physiotherapy.

Methods: Twenty-five infants (0-12 months) diagnosed with CMT participated in this study from May 2023 to February 2024. They underwent an 8-week physiotherapy program. Muscle tone, elasticity, and stiffness were measured using myotonometry, muscle strength by the Muscle Function Scale (MFS), and neck range of motion by an arthrodial protractor before and after treatment.

Results: The mean age was 4 ± 1.56 months. Significant differences in SCM tone and stiffness between affected and intact sides were observed pre-treatment (p<0.05) but were not significant post-treatment (p>0.05). Intra-group improvements were significant for muscle tone (p=0.005), elasticity (p=0.009), stiffness (p=0.009), strength (p=0.006), and neck range of motion (p=0.021). Muscle tone decreased by 19.65%, muscle stiffness by 24.99%, and muscle elasticity improved by 9.42%. Passive lateral flexion increased by 59.09% and passive rotation by 25.40%.

Conclusions: SCM muscle properties differ between sides in individuals with CMT; however, myotonometry effectively detects improvements following physiotherapy, making it a valuable clinical evaluation tool. Nevertheless, the relatively small sample size should be taken into account when interpreting the findings.

Keywords: Congenital Muscular Torticollis; Muscle Elasticity; Muscle Stiffness; Muscle Tone; Physiotherapy.