Flat head syndrome has become increasingly common in the United States since parents started putting their infants on their backs to sleep to attempt to protect against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or SIDS. Babies can develop a flat spot on the back of their heads due to the pressure of lying in one position. This flat spot can be primarily on one side of their head which is referred to as plagiocephaly or a uniform flat spot on the back of the head which is called brachycephaly.
Flat Head Syndrome is a Common Condition
Babies have pliable skulls. They have to have soft or flexible area on their skulls to get through the birth canal and the soft spots don't harden for quite some time. Many physicians state that having a flat spot can be caused by babies lying in one position for extended periods of time. Other causes can be torticollis or a weakness in one of the muscles on the infant's neck which causes him to turn his head to one side and causes more pressure on one side of the head than the other. This can cause uneven wearing on the back of the head and eventually, a flat spot.
How to Determine if Your Baby Has Flat Head Syndrome
Many times, it's easy to notice the flat spot on an infant's head. Parents need to simply look at the back of the baby's head to determine if it is flattened either uniformly or more on one side or the other.
Babies with plagiocephaly or flatness on one side can have one ear that is pushed forward and sometimes have asymmetrical facial features which is caused by the flattening on the back of the head. The forehead on the flattened side may also bulge a bit.
Parents should also notice if the infant prefers to turn her head one direction or the other. This could indicate torticollis and may mean the baby could be at risk for developing a flat spot.
Flat Head Syndrome is More Than a Cosmetic Problem
Most medical professionals state that plagiocephaly is more of a cosmetic problem than a serious medical condition. Many parents disagree. Not only can a flat spot on the back of an infant's head cause problems with head circumference, it can cause facial features to be asymmetrical which can eventually cause social problems. Some infants may also develop scoliosis, vision problems or orthodontic issues.
Prevention is Best
Most of a baby's head growth occurs during the first year of life. It's important for parents to monitor the shape of the infant’s head and notice any tendencies to turn one way or another. Babies should not be left in one position for long periods of time including in car seats or swings. They should be offered tummy time on a daily basis not only to strengthen their muscles, but to get them off of their backs and the pressure off of their heads.
Parents should also rotate the infant in the crib because babies like to look out of the crib rather than at the wall. This way the baby is not always turning his head in the same direction to look out at the room. It may also be helpful to move the interesting toys, such as crib soothers or mirrors, around in the crib so the baby is not always looking in the same direction.
Caregivers should alternate which arm they feed the baby with as well as change the carrying position. Babies can be carried facing the parent, face down on a parent’s arm, on a parent’s hip or in a sling. Alternating carrying positions will prevent pressure on the same spot on the infant’s head.
There are also special pillows and positioners available that claim to prevent flatness of the infant's head. These pillows sometimes use foam to cradle the infant's head and prevent pressure points from developing in the same area. Some parents claim that these pillows work wonders, but others report that they aren't effective.
Treatment for Flat Head Syndrome
Once parents notice flatness on the back of their child’s head, they should discuss it with a pediatrician. Many pediatricians take a wait and see attitude and will simply advise the parent to monitor the area. It is important to use the preventative strategies such as repositioning and tummy time to keep pressure off of the area so that it doesn’t worsen.
If parents notice continued flatness, they may be referred to a physical therapist or may take it upon themselves to locate a professional with experience with Flat Head Syndrome. A physical therapist will do stretches in the office and teach parents how to use these stretches at home as well. It’s imperative that parents follow the advice of the professional and complete the exercises as advised.
If repositioning and physical therapy are unsuccessful and the flatness becomes more pronounced, there are helmets available that mold the baby’s head while keeping pressure off of the flat areas. These helmets are made by specialists and must be prescribed by a physician. They can be expensive so, in this case, prevention is the best measure to take.
This common problem is one that can be prevented with the right measures and parent monitoring. If the issue persists, there are some strategies that parents and professionals can utilize to help the appearance of the baby’s head.
This article is not meant to be a substitute for medical advice. If parents are concerned about their child’s head shape, they should contact their pediatrician.
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