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What is Flat Head Syndrome in Infants?
Flathead syndrome or Plagiocephaly occurs when an infant develops a flat spot on one side of the head or the whole back of the head. This deformation develops when a baby sleeps in the same position during the first month of life.
What causes a flat head in babies?
The most common cause of the flat head syndrome is a baby’s sleep position. When a baby’s head stays in one position for a long period of time, the skull flattens.
Every so often a baby is born with this deformation due to the tight space in the uterus. The risk increases if there are twins.
Many believe the flat head syndrome is the parents’ fault and is a sign of neglect. This is in fact false. Babies’ heads are malleable from birth to allow brain growth, this can cause the head to be easily molded even when practicing proper reposition technique.
Other causes of plagiocephaly include:
Prematurity – Premature babies spend a lot of time with their heads in the same position while staying at the hospital for treatment.
Muscular torticollis – Tight neck muscles make it difficult for babies to turn their heads. This condition can worsen after a flat spot has developed.
Does Flat Head correct itself over time?
In mild cases, plagiocephaly should naturally correct itself throughout the early months of life.
Parents can help prevent flat head syndrome by practicing proper head repositioning techniques to lower the risk of this deformity.
It is perfectly fine to place a baby on their back to sleep to prevent SIDS (Sudden Infant death Syndrome). As your baby sleeps, gently turn their head to vary the position throughout the night.
Reposition Techniques
Allow your baby to play on his/her tummy. Tummy time increases strength and head control.
Change the position of toys to encourage your baby to look side-to-side to prevent a static position.
Alternate the position of your baby when it comes to changing diapers.
What is the treatment for a flat head baby?
Parents and caregivers can help prevent flat head syndrome with simple practices like alternating a baby’s sleep position, holding your baby and practicing tummy time.
Can Flat Head Syndrome be fixed without a helmet?
Pediatricians may recommend a helmet to help treat positional plagiocephaly much quicker. On average, a helmet has the same results as a baby that is properly cared for over time.
Other forms of flat head treatment
A plagiocephaly pillow is an alternative method of treating flat head syndrome. This treatment is seen as the cheapest and most readily available option but is highly recommended only to be used when the baby is awake.
Can Plagiocephaly cause brain damage?
Flathead syndrome is considered a cosmetic issue and in a majority of cases, it does not affect brain development or growth. As the child gets older and spends more time sitting, crawling, and standing this deformity will improve.
In conclusion, Plagiocephaly is common in newborns and can be treated naturally over time. While it can cause deformation, a consultation with a pediatrician should be considered for proper steps on flat head syndrome treatment.
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