What is Flat Head Syndrome?
Flat Head Syndrome, also known as positional plagiocephaly, refers to the flattening of one side of an infant's head. This typically occurs when a baby consistently sleeps in the same position or spends extended periods lying on their back. The condition can also cause the head to appear asymmetrical or misshapen.
What Causes Flat Head Syndrome?
The most common cause of Flat Head Syndrome is prolonged pressure on one part of the infant's skull. This can be due to various factors such as:
Consistent sleeping on the back
Limited
tummy time Extended time spent in car seats, swings, or bouncers
Neck muscle tightness or torticollis, which can cause a baby to hold their head in one position
How Common is Flat Head Syndrome?
Flat Head Syndrome is relatively common, particularly since the introduction of the "Back to Sleep" campaign, which promotes placing babies on their backs to sleep to reduce the risk of
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). While the campaign has been successful in lowering SIDS rates, it has coincided with an increase in cases of positional plagiocephaly.
Asymmetry of the head
Uneven ears
Forward slanting of the forehead
Facial asymmetry
How is Flat Head Syndrome Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically made through a physical exam by a pediatrician. In some cases, imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans may be used to rule out other conditions like craniosynostosis, which is the premature fusion of skull bones.
Repositioning techniques: Frequently changing the baby's head position during sleep and ensuring adequate tummy time while awake.
Physical therapy: For infants with torticollis or other neck issues, physical therapy can help improve head movement.
Helmet therapy: In severe cases, a custom-fitted helmet may be used to help shape the baby's head as they grow.
Ensuring plenty of supervised tummy time while the baby is awake
Alternating the direction the baby faces while sleeping
Minimizing time spent in car seats, swings, and bouncers
Using a
baby carrier to reduce pressure on the back of the head
When Should Parents Seek Medical Advice?
Parents should consult a pediatrician if they notice any signs of head flattening, facial asymmetry, or if the baby has difficulty moving their head. Early intervention can often prevent the condition from worsening and may eliminate the need for more invasive treatments.
What is the Prognosis for Flat Head Syndrome?
The prognosis for Flat Head Syndrome is generally good, especially with early intervention. Most infants show significant improvement with repositioning and physical therapy. In more severe cases, helmet therapy can effectively correct the head shape. Long-term effects are rare, and the condition usually resolves as the child grows.
