Early Detection and Recovery from Sternocleidomastoid Tumor (Congenital Torticollis) – Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat
Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat – Child Doctor BP
A baby with a small neck lump was found to have a Sternocleidomastoid Tumor — a benign condition that can cause congenital torticollis. Through careful ultrasound examination and guided recovery, the baby gradually regained normal neck movement under close paediatric supervision at Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat.
A Gentle Lump, A Careful Discovery
During a routine newborn check, a small but noticeable lump was observed on the side of the baby’s neck. The baby was otherwise healthy and feeding well. However, upon gentle palpation, Dr Low detected firmness along the sternocleidomastoid muscle, which raised suspicion of a Sternocleidomastoid Tumor — a condition that may lead to Congenital Torticollis, where the baby’s head tilts to one side.
Understanding Sternocleidomastoid Tumor
Despite the name “tumor,” this is not cancerous. It is a benign muscle swelling, usually caused by minor birth injury or limited blood flow to the muscle during delivery. This leads to fibrosis and thickening of the muscle, causing the baby’s head to tilt or turn to one side.
If left untreated, congenital torticollis can affect head symmetry, facial growth, and neck mobility. Therefore, early recognition is essential.
Ultrasound Confirmation
An ultrasound scan of the neck confirmed the presence of a well-defined mass within the sternocleidomastoid muscle — consistent with a Sternocleidomastoid Tumor. There were no signs of infection, cysts, or malignancy. This finding provided reassurance to the family that the condition was benign and treatable.
Gentle Care and Physiotherapy
Dr Low guided the parents on neck stretching exercises, positioning during feeding, and tummy time to promote natural movement. No surgery was needed — with simple physiotherapy and consistent follow-up, the muscle gradually softened and the baby’s head alignment improved.
Recovery and Growth
Over the next few months, the swelling reduced and the baby’s head returned to a normal, balanced position. Early detection, proper diagnosis, and timely physiotherapy were key to this full recovery.
Educational Insights
Parents should always observe any lumps, limited movement, or head tilt in newborns. Early ultrasound and paediatric consultation are crucial to differentiate benign causes from other neck masses.
At Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat, ultrasound screening and developmental assessment help ensure your baby’s growth is healthy and symmetrical — right from the start.
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