What small, firm mass can sometimes be palpated within the affected SCM in CMT infants?
Answer
A small, firm, non-tender mass or "knot."
In cases of Congenital Muscular Torticollis (CMT), particularly when observed in infants, physical examination may reveal a distinct tactile finding within the pathologically tight sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM). This finding is described as a small, firm mass, often referred to colloquially as a "knot." Importantly, this palpable structure is characterized as being non-tender to the touch, meaning it does not elicit pain when pressed. This specific physical indicator helps confirm the diagnosis of muscular restriction within the SCM rather than some other form of swelling or abnormality.
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