Torticollis and metatarsus adductus are often the consequence of what prenatal factor?

• A. In utero positioning
• B. Perinatal infection
• C. Postnatal trauma
• D. Nutritional deficiency

Answer: (A)

In utero positioning is the factor here. When a fetus is crowded or held in awkward positions in the womb, mechanical molding can occur, leading to muscle imbalance and fixed or flexible deformities. Torticollis develops from shortening or fibrosis of the sternocleidomastoid muscle due to prenatal positioning, and metatarsus adductus results from the feet being held in an inward position during development. Perinatal infection, postnatal trauma, and nutritional deficiencies explain different problems or deformities that don’t reflect this same in-utero mechanical molding. Recognizing these as positional deformities helps guide management toward early physical therapy and monitoring, rather than focusing on infections, trauma treatment, or nutritional interventions.