Physiotherapy to treat Plagiocephaly
Plagiocephaly, also known as Positional Plagiocephaly or Deformational Plagiocephaly, refers to a misshapen head. Babies are born with joints in their skull bones, called fontanelles, that have not yet fused, making it easier for them to pass through the birth canal. Over time, these joints fuse, but the skull remains soft and mouldable, making it susceptible to developing flat spots if the baby spends more time with their head turned to one side
Flat spots typically develop on the back of the head and may be accompanied by a stiff neck or preference for turning the head in one direction. In moderate to severe cases, Plagiocephaly can cause asymmetry in the face, such as one eye appearing larger than the other or one ear appearing further forward than the other.
What Causes Plagiocephaly?
Plagiocephaly is caused by pressure on one part of the head for prolonged periods.
This can occur while the baby is in mother’s stomach such as when the baby is in a breech position or in multiple births (e.g twins)
After birth, it can be caused by the baby spending long periods lying on their back. Especially if a baby dislikes spending play time in other positions like tummy time, sidleying or supported sitting
It can also develop from always sleeping with the head turned to one side.
Premature babies are more prone to Plagiocephaly due to their soft skull bones and lack of head movement.
How is Plagiocephaly Treated?
The treatment depends on the severity of the Plagiocephaly.
Mild cases will usually resolve on their own, but when accompanied by a preference to turn the head to one side or a head tilt, Physiotherapy assessment and treatment is necessary.
A Physiotherapist will identify assess and address the underlying cause of the flat head and give you specific activities and recommendations to improve this.
A babies head is most mouldable when they are under 6-8 months, therefore it’s best to see a physiotherapist sooner than waiting to see if the flat head will improve on its own
In more severe cases or when identified late, a custom-made helmet by a Paediatric Orthotist may be needed.
How to Reduce the Risk of Plagiocephaly?
Always place the baby on their back to sleep (SIDS safe sleeping advice).
Vary the position of the baby in the crib to encourage them to turn their head to both sides.
Help the baby play in positions that take pressure off the back of the head, such as tummy time or playing on their side.
Experiment with different ways of carrying the baby, such as on their tummy, side or upright.
Limit the amount of time spent in positioning devices where the baby is lying on their back, such as car capsules, car seats, and prams.
NOTE: there is no current evidence that “flat head prevention” pillows or any other pillows can change headshape! These go against the SIDS advice and does not address the cause of your babies flat head
If you are concerned about our baby’s headshape. Contact us to have a paediatric physiotherapist assess your child in the comfort of your own home.