Factors Influencing and Long-Term Effects of Manual Myotomy Phenomenon During Physiotherapy for Congenital Muscular Torticollis

Abstract

Purpose To investigate the factors influencing and long-term effects of manual myotomy (MM) occurring during physical therapy for congenital muscular torticollis (CMT). Methods We retrospectively collected the clinical data of children with CMT receiving physical treatment between 2008 and 2018. The children were divided into MM and NMM groups according to whether MM occurred during treatment. Clinical data and outcome indicators (craniofacial asymmetry parameters and Cheng–Tang rating score) were compared. Results The MM group had a significantly higher total Cheng–Tang rating score than the NMM group (P < 0.05). Age at initial physiotherapy session was the risk factor for MM during physiotherapy. Conclusion Children with CMT developing MM during physiotherapy generally have a good outcome, although we do not recommend MM as a goal of treatment. Physiotherapists should understand this phenomenon, assess relevant factors to predict risk, and carefully observe treatment to prevent possible complications.