Deformational plagiocephaly (Flat head)
Deformational plagiocephaly, or commonly known as flat head syndrome is when a child has asymmetrical distortion of the skull. It can present as a flat spot on one side of the head or the entire back of head. In some cases, it resolves 2-3 weeks after delivery. However, in some cases, the head asymmetry persists.
What are some signs to look out for?
Is your baby’s head flatter on one side?
Does one side of your baby’s forehead bulge more than the other?
When looking down at your baby’s head from above, are their ears aligned—or is one ear positioned further forward than the other?
Is there noticeably less hair on one part of their head?
What causes a flat head?
When a baby keeps their head in one position for long periods of time. The skull bones of infants are softer, so they can change shape easily. There are many factors that limit the infant’s ability to reposition their head naturally during the first few months of life, this includes:
In-utero constraint
Position of the baby in the uterus during pregnancy may cause pressure to their head. It can also cause cervical spine joint dysfunction which will predispose the infant to prefer to turn to one side
Birth trauma
The birthing process can be quite stressful for some babies, especially if it involved an emergency C-section, induction and/ or instrument assistance.
Congenital Muscular Torticollis
Different length or tone of the sternocleidomastoid muscle
This can happen as a result of physical trauma to the cervical spine and muscles
Makes it hard for babies to turn their heads, causing them to keep head in same position
Why this needs to be addressed?
There are studies that suggest plagiocephaly is more than a cosmetic issue and was associated with changes in gross and fine motor development, and may be associated with learning difficulties at a later age. Early intervention is key to improve outcomes in head asymmetry and neurodevelopment