Plagiocephaly
Plagiocephaly is the medical term for head flattening which is due to the pressure on the baby’s skull when lying in the same position for a long period of time.
The physiotherapist will be able to give you advice on carrying positions, tracking activities and play positions to help.
As the baby starts to move more pressure is then taken off the flattened part of the skull and the head shape generally starts to improve.
The head shape may take months to correct and a degree of flattening may remain but is normally covered with hair by the time the child is older and less noticeable.
It can be caused by:
- Overcrowding in the womb
- A preference to turn to one side e.g. sleep position
- Be associated with torticollis (tightening of the neck muscles) which limits the child turning their head fully.
- Position in the womb or during labour (breech)
- Premature babies have softer skulls which are prone to moulding
Depending on the severity cranial remodelling helmets can be supplied and monitored privately.
Your physiotherapist / doctor will need to rule out a condition called craniosynostosis, a more serious condition where the bony plates that make the skull fuse together too soon. Craniosynostosis requires surgery to correct and again a cranial remodelling helmet can help to correct any residual head flattening.
Appointments
Get in touch with a member of our friendly team
Office 3
Northlight Estate
Northlight Parade
Nelson
BB9 5EG