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Discover Flat Head Syndrome
At PlagioHealth, we specialize in providing educational resources for parents of children with plagiocephaly. We understand the challenges parents face when dealing with plagiocephaly. Our aim is to provide you with the knowledge and tools necessary to prevent and assist with flat head syndrome effectively.
What is Plagiocephaly?
Plagiocephaly (pronounced “play-jee-oh-seh-fuh-lee”), is a condition in which a baby's head develops an asymmetrical shape. There are three main types of cranial asymmetry - Plagiocephaly, Brachycephaly and Scaphocephaly. These three types of skull deformation are commonly grouped together and referred to as Plagiocephaly or Flat Head Syndrome.
Plagiocephaly
Plagiocephaly is defined as a flattening on one side of the baby's head. It is the most common type of cranial asymmetry.
Brachycephaly
Brachycephaly is defined as a flattening of the entire back of the head. Occasionally the forehead will also bulge out. It is possible for a baby to have a combination of plagiocephaly and brachycephaly. This is called asymmetric brachycephaly.
Scaphocephaly
Scaphocephaly is when the infants head is long and narrow, with a wide forehead. The sides of the head may also appear flattened. It is often congenital and it is most commonly seen in premature infants.
PlagioHealth offers a variety of products to help parents prevent and assist with flat head syndrome. Click here to shop our selection of products.
What causes Flat Head Syndrome
The bones of a baby’s skull are not fused together at birth, which allows for the rapid growth of the brain during the first year of life. The skull is made up of several plates of bone that are held together by soft tissue called sutures. These sutures allow the bones of the skull to move and overlap, which helps the baby’s head to pass through the birth canal. The sutures also allow the skull to expand as the brain grows. This allows for the rapid growth of the brain during the first year of life.
Therefore, babies’ heads are soft and malleable and even gentle external forces, whether met in the womb or in baby’s daily routine, can result in the development of a misshapen head.
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Many factors can be associated with plagiocephaly. Some occur before birth because of limited space in the uterus, which is more common with:
Premature Birth
Premature babies are at an increased risk for plagiocephaly, or flat head syndrome, because their skulls are softer and more pliable than those of full-term babies. This makes them more susceptible to the pressure that can be caused by spending long periods of time in the same position, such as in the NICU. Premature babies are also more likely to have physical delays that can prevent them from moving their heads normally.
Fetal Position
Babies who are confined to one position in the womb or do not have enough room to move around are at risk of developing plagiocephaly, a condition in which the head is misshapen. Breech presentation, in which the baby is positioned feet-first, can also lead to an abnormal head shape.
Multiple Births
Flat head syndrome is more common in multiple births because there is less room in the womb for the babies to move around, which can lead to pressure on one side of the head and a misshapen skull.
Some also occur after birth as a result of factors including:
Back-Sleeping
Back sleeping is the safest sleep position for babies, as it reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). However, back sleeping can also increase the risk of plagiocephaly due to pressure from sleeping in the same position for long periods of time.
Carriers & Convenience Devices
Carriers and convenience devices, such as infant seats, swings, and bouncers, can be convenient for parents, but they can also increase the risk of plagiocephaly due to pressure from spending long periods of time in the same position.
Torticollis
Congenital Muscular Torticollis (CMT) is a condition in which the neck muscles are abnormally tight on one side, causing baby’s head to tilt and/or turn to one side. Torticollis often causes the head to be held in a single position, which can lead to plagiocephaly.
Asssisting Flat Head Syndrome
Most infants with flat head syndrome, starting immediately after birth typically respond very well to non-surgical, noninvasive treatments which parents can practice at home. These natural techniques are highly recommended for mild and moderate cases of flat head syndrome to reduce or distribute pressure on the already flattened area of the head.
Reducing pressure on the already flattened side of the head can help to improve flat head syndrome. When the baby is awake, avoid placing them in a bouncy seat, baby swing, infant car carrier or any other convenience carriers for long periods of time. Instead, hold your baby, wear them in a front carrier, wrap, or sling. Click here to learn more about pressure reduction.
Repositioning
Repositioning simply means changing the baby's positions during sleep, playtime, and other activities. Repositioning is a gentle and non-invasive approach that can help your baby avoid constant pressure on the already flattened area of the head. Click here to learn more about repositioning.
Adequate tummy time can help to remove the pressure from the already flattened side of the head. When a baby spends time on their tummy, it helps to strengthen their neck muscles and improve their balance. This, in turn, helps them to turn their head from side to side more easily. Click here to learn more about tummy time.
For infants with moderate to severe plagiocephaly, a corrective helmet is typically recommended.
Preventing Flat Head Syndrome
There are proactive practices parents can take to prevent any flat head syndrome from developing. By implementing such practices, parents can effectively prevent flat head syndrome and help ensure their baby's head develops properly and avoid any cranial asymmetry. Here are some effective practices to prevent the development of any flat head syndrome.
Many factors can be associated with plagiocephaly. Some occur before birth because of limited space in the uterus, which is more common with:
Reduce Pressure
Reducing pressure plays a vital role in preventing the development of any flat head syndrome. When a baby spends a lot of time in one position, the pressure on their skull can cause a flattening or distortion of the shape of the head. By actively reducing pressure from the baby’s head parents can ensure the healthy development of their infant's skull and prevent the risk of any cranial asymmetry from developing. Click here to learn more about pressure reduction.
Pressure Distribution
Pressure distribution is a crucial factor in preventing the development of any flat head syndrome. When a baby spends excessive time in one position, such as lying on their back, constant pressure on one area can cause flattening or deformation of the head. However, by implementing techniques that distribute pressure evenly you can prevent the risk of any cranial asymmetry from developing. Click here to learn more about pressure distribution.
Bedding
Optimal bedding can contribute to preventing flat head syndrome. Such mattresses are designed to provide optimal support and pressure distribution for infants to promote cranial symmetry and prevent flat head syndrome. Special mattresses may feature a unique design that includes strategic cut-outs or recessed areas to reduce direct contact with the back of the head, and also allowing for better air circulation and minimizing pressure points. Additionally, using a supportive, properly-fitted infant carrier or car seat can also help distribute pressure evenly and prevent flattening of the head. Click here to learn more about bedding.
Repositioning
Repositioning is an effective measure in preventing flat head syndrome. By frequently changing the baby's head position during sleep, playtime, and other activities, parents can reduce the amount of continuous pressure on one specific area and distribute pressure evenly across the baby’s head. Repositioning is an important strategy that caregivers can incorporate into their routine to prevent the risk of any cranial asymmetry from developing. Click here to learn more about repositioning.
Tummy Time
Adequate tummy time can significantly contribute to help prevent flat head syndrome. By placing the baby on their stomach while awake, tummy time allows for a change in position and reduces the amount of continuous pressure on the back of the head. This helps to strengthen the baby's neck, shoulder, and upper body muscles, promoting overall development and reducing the risk of the development of any flat head syndrome. Click here to learn more about tummy time.
Summary
In conclusion, plagiocephaly is a relatively common condition that affects a significant percentage of babies. The good news is that it can be easily prevented and managed from the comfort of your own home. By incorporating simple exercises such as pressure reduction, pressure distribution, using appropriate bedding, and implementing regular tummy time, parents can play a crucial role in preventing and addressing flat head syndrome.
At PlagioHealth offers we offer extensive resources and support to guide you through this journey. Click here to learn more about a diverse range of products specifically designed to help parents in their efforts to address flat head syndrome.