neck problem

[zulusinoz]

My son, now 8 yrs old, is one of an identical twin and was 'stuck' head down in my uterus for 6 mths while I carried him.  He was subsequently born with his head 'stuck' to one side.  After about a year it came 'loose'.  
He was diagnosed with a maningioma? 1/3 the size of his brain at 2yrs old.  He had a successful operation.
He always turns his head to his left ear whilst watching tv, concentrating on something in front of him,etc.  He also suffers with bad neck aches, which he has stretch exercises for.  (This turning of his head is a result of the way the neck was when he was born etc., so he sees this as his 'comfort spot' when watching something.
Is there a type of brace he can wear when at school or watching tv?  I have also asked his teacher to remind him to correct his neck when  she notices it.
Please help as this is a very 'bad habit' now.
thanks a lot
Melanie

[chadry]

My grandson did the same thing when he was born. His neck was always to one side. They had to start PT on him when he was very young and they continue to do the stretches with him now. He seems to be alot better. I have not seen him so far hold his head to the one side. I know I was very worried about that also. Habits are hard to be broken but I think with the stretching and the reminders he will eventually get into the habit of holding his head in the proper position. I wish you the best of luck with your son.
Chadry

[kittyluv1]

Your son is still very young and will continue growing so I can understand your concerns regarding his tendency to turn his head into his "comfort" position.  
Since this is considered to have occurred as a result of his positioning in utero, his muscles may have not developed equally and causes his tendency to turn his head for comfort.
The stretching exercises done consistently will hopefully improve his muscle development as he continues to grow.
There are probably braces or other types of equipment to position his neck in proper alignment, but wearing a brace might not be indicated if this is considered to be more of a habit and is unrelated to short muscles, muscle spasm etc. A brace might not be as effective when no medical condition is identified.
Behavior modification techniques need to be utilized in addition to any exercise or physical therapy program.  Trying to erase a habit is difficult at any age.  You might want to consult with his physical therapist regarding useful tools to assist you in behavior modification techniques.  The similarity of his neck positioning for comfort and thumb sucking in children indicates the extent of his need to continue this habit.
I can appreciate your concern regarding this problem and I hope that investigating behavior modification techniques will help in a way that is not seen as punishment for him.
Good luck ---