Plagiocefalia i brachycefalia (zespół płaskiej głowy)
Objawy

Plagiocefalia i brachycefalia, określane jako zespół płaskiej głowy, to powszechne deformacje czaszki niemowląt, występujące u nawet 20-46,6% dzieci w pierwszym roku życia. Plagiocefalia charakteryzuje się asymetrycznym spłaszczeniem tylnej części głowy z przesunięciem ucha do przodu i asymetrią twarzy, natomiast brachycefalia objawia się symetrycznym spłaszczeniem tylnej części głowy, poszerzeniem czaszki i możliwym wybrzuszeniem czoła. Objawy pojawiają się zwykle między 6 a 8 tygodniem życia, a ich nasilenie wzrasta do 2-4 miesiąca życia, kiedy czaszka jest najbardziej plastyczna. W większości przypadków deformacje ulegają poprawie wraz z rozwojem kontroli głowy i zwiększoną aktywnością niemowlęcia, zwłaszcza po 3-4 miesiącu życia, a do 1-2 roku życia następuje znaczna korekta kształtu czaszki. Jednak u 19% dzieci może utrzymywać się łagodne spłaszczenie, a u 1% umiarkowane lub ciężkie zniekształcenie do 5 roku życia.

Plagiocefalia i brachycefalia (zespół płaskiej głowy) – Objawy i progresja

Plagiocefalia i brachycefalia, określane wspólnie jako „zespół płaskiej głowy”, to stany polegające na zniekształceniu kształtu czaszki niemowlęcia. Oba te schorzenia są dość powszechne, dotykając nawet 1 na 5 niemowląt, a niektóre badania sugerują, że występują u nawet 46,6% dzieci w pierwszym roku życia12. Najczęściej schorzenia te rozwijają się w wyniku długotrwałego przebywania niemowlęcia w jednej pozycji, wywierającej stały nacisk na część czaszki3.

Charakterystyka obu stanów

Plagiocefalia charakteryzuje się asymetrycznym spłaszczeniem po jednej stronie głowy, najczęściej z tyłu. Prowadzi to do niesymetrycznego kształtu głowy, przypominającego równoległobok przy obserwacji z góry45. Jest to najczęstszy typ zespołu płaskiej głowy6.

Brachycefalia to spłaszczenie występujące symetrycznie na całej tylnej części głowy. Powoduje to poszerzenie głowy i może prowadzić do wybrzuszenia czoła78. Jest to drugi najczęstszy typ zespołu płaskiej głowy8.

Czasami u niemowląt może występować kombinacja obu typów, co skutkuje szerokim, asymetrycznym kształtem głowy9.

Objawy plagiocephalii

Główne objawy plagiocephalii obejmują:

  • Spłaszczenie po jednej stronie głowy (zazwyczaj z tyłu)10
  • Asymetryczny kształt głowy przypominający równoległobok przy obserwacji z góry11
  • Przesunięcie ucha do przodu po stronie spłaszczenia10
  • Asymetria twarzy, w tym nierówne policzki, oczodoły lub żuchwa5
  • Wybrzuszenie czoła po stronie spłaszczenia12
  • Przechylenie głowy na jedną stronę10
  • Mniej włosów na spłaszczonej części głowy13

W bardziej zaawansowanych przypadkach plagiocephalii, asymetria może wpływać na rysy twarzy, powodując, że jedno oko wydaje się większe lub wyżej położone niż drugie, a policzki mogą mieć różną wielkość1415.

Objawy brachycephalii

Charakterystyczne objawy brachycephalii to:

  • Równomierne spłaszczenie tylnej części głowy16
  • Poszerzenie głowy z tyłu (stosunek szerokości do długości jest większy niż typowy)17
  • Możliwe wybrzuszenie czoła lub „wyższe” czoło18
  • Niekiedy zwiększona wysokość tylnej części głowy18
  • Potencjalna utrata wyraźnego zarysu szyi19
  • Twarz może mieć kształt „pełnego księżyca”5
  • Może wystąpić przesunięcie uszu do przodu20

Rozwój schorzenia w czasie

Progresja zespołu płaskiej głowy ma charakterystyczny przebieg, który można podzielić na kilka etapów15:

Pierwsze oznaki

Objawy plagiocephalii i brachycephalii mogą zacząć być widoczne już w wieku 6-8 tygodni2122, choć niektórzy rodzice mogą zauważyć zmiany wcześniej. Początkowe spłaszczenie może być delikatne i trudne do zauważenia. Na tym etapie niemowlę często zaczyna preferować obracanie głowy w jedną stronę lub leżenie w określonej pozycji23.

Okres najwyższego ryzyka

Zespół płaskiej głowy najczęściej występuje między 2 a 4 miesiącem życia24. W tym okresie czaszka niemowlęcia jest nadal bardzo elastyczna, a ono samo ma ograniczoną zdolność do samodzielnej zmiany pozycji. Jeśli nie podejmie się działań korygujących, stan może się pogorszyć1525.

W przypadku bardziej zaawansowanej plagiocephalii, asymetria staje się wyraźniejsza – następuje przesunięcie ucha do przodu po spłaszczonej stronie, czoło po tej samej stronie staje się bardziej wydatne, a z czasem może pojawić się asymetria oczu, kości policzkowych, żuchwy oraz przegrody nosowej1525.

Naturalna poprawa

U większości niemowląt z łagodną lub umiarkowaną formą zespołu płaskiej głowy, stan zaczyna się poprawiać, gdy dziecko rozwija kontrolę nad głową i zaczyna spędzać więcej czasu w pozycji siedzącej oraz na brzuchu26. Zwykle następuje to około 3-4 miesiąca życia27. Kiedy niemowlę zaczyna samodzielnie zmieniać pozycję podczas snu i zabawy, nacisk na płaski obszar zmniejsza się, pozwalając czaszce na bardziej równomierny wzrost28.

Gdy dziecko zaczyna samodzielnie siedzieć (zwykle około 6-7 miesiąca życia), spłaszczenie zazwyczaj nie pogarsza się29. Następnie, w miarę upływu miesięcy i lat, w miarę wzrostu czaszki, spłaszczenie ulega poprawie, nawet w ciężkich przypadkach30.

Długoterminowe rokowanie

U większości dzieci z zespołem płaskiej głowy następuje znaczna poprawa kształtu głowy do wieku 1-2 lat31. Łagodne przypadki często całkowicie ustępują bez interwencji. Jednak w bardziej zaawansowanych przypadkach, mimo poprawy, pewien stopień spłaszczenia może pozostać widoczny30. Według holenderskiego badania, do 5 roku życia, u 80% dzieci z wcześniejszą plagiocephalią, kształt głowy mieści się w granicach normy, u 19% pozostaje łagodne spłaszczenie, a tylko u 1% utrzymuje się umiarkowane lub ciężkie zniekształcenie32.

Z wiekiem porastające włosy często pomagają zamaskować pozostałe nierówności kształtu głowy28. Szacuje się, że około 12% dorosłych ma pewien stopień plagiocephalii, a taka sama liczba ma brachycephalię, choć różnice te są rzadko zauważalne w codziennym życiu33.

Wpływ na rozwój dziecka

Zespół płaskiej głowy jest przeważnie uznawany za problem kosmetyczny, który nie wpływa na rozwój mózgu czy zdolności poznawcze dziecka734. Niemowlęta z plagiocephalią lub brachycephalią nie doświadczają bólu ani innych fizycznych objawów związanych z tymi stanami335.

Jednakże, istnieją pewne badania sugerujące potencjalny związek między nieleczoną, poważną plagiocephalią a subtelnymi problemami rozwojowymi36. Niektóre z tych badań wskazują, że dzieci z plagiocephalią mogą mieć zwiększone ryzyko opóźnień w rozwoju ruchowym, językowym i społecznym3738.

W bardziej zaawansowanych przypadkach, nieleczony zespół płaskiej głowy może potencjalnie prowadzić do8:

  • Problemów z karmieniem39
  • Opóźnień w rozwoju mowy i języka39
  • Problemów z widzeniem, w tym ograniczonego pola widzenia39
  • Opóźnień w rozwoju umiejętności poznawczych (myślenia i uczenia się)39
  • Opóźnień w rozwoju umiejętności motorycznych (ruchu)39

Warto jednak podkreślić, że związek przyczynowy między plagiocephalią a opóźnieniami rozwojowymi nie został jednoznacznie ustalony38. Niektóre badania sugerują, że plagiocefalia może być raczej markerem podwyższonego ryzyka opóźnień rozwojowych niż ich bezpośrednią przyczyną36.

Wskazania do konsultacji medycznej

Mimo że zespół płaskiej głowy często poprawia się samoistnie, istnieją sytuacje, w których zalecana jest konsultacja z lekarzem40. Należy skonsultować się ze specjalistą, jeśli:

  • Spłaszczenie nie zaczyna poprawiać się do około 2 miesiąca życia40
  • Dziecko ma silną preferencję do obracania głowy w jedną stronę40
  • Występują trudności z obracaniem głowy w lewo lub w prawo40
  • Kształt czaszki i asymetria twarzy są bardziej nasilone niż zazwyczaj obserwowane w plagiocephalii41
  • Występują opóźnienia w rozwoju motorycznym, drobnej motoryki, rozwoju społecznym, wizualnym lub słuchowym41
  • Konsekwentne stosowanie technik repozycjonowania po 5 miesiącu życia nie przynosi poprawy42

Wczesna interwencja jest kluczowa dla osiągnięcia najlepszych wyników leczenia43. Im wcześniej rozpocznie się leczenie, tym większa szansa na poprawę lub zapobieżenie dalszemu spłaszczeniu głowy44.

Inne ważne aspekty

Różnicowanie z kraniosynostozą

Ważne jest, aby odróżnić pozycyjną plagiocephalię i brachycephalię od kraniosynostozy – rzadkiego, ale poważniejszego stanu, w którym dochodzi do przedwczesnego zrośnięcia się szwów czaszkowych45. Kraniosynostoza wymaga innego podejścia terapeutycznego, często włączając leczenie chirurgiczne46.

Symptomy, które mogą sugerować kraniosynostozę zamiast pozycyjnej plagiocephalii, obejmują47:

Związek z torticollis

Około 9 na 10 niemowląt z zespołem płaskiej głowy ma również pewien stopień torticollis (kręczu szyi)48. Jest to stan, w którym mięśnie szyi są napięte po jednej stronie, powodując skręcenie i przechylenie głowy8. Torticollis może przyczyniać się do rozwoju plagiocephalii, ponieważ ogranicza zdolność niemowlęcia do samodzielnej zmiany pozycji głowy49.

Te dwa schorzenia często występują razem, tworząc efekt synergistyczny. Badania pokazują, że plagiocephalia jest silnie związana z kręczem szyi, występując nawet u 70-95% dzieci z tym schorzeniem49.

Długoterminowe konsekwencje nieleczonego zespołu płaskiej głowy

Choć większość przypadków zespołu płaskiej głowy poprawia się z czasem, nieleczona, ciężka plagiocephalia lub brachycephalia może mieć pewne długoterminowe konsekwencje5051:

  • Trwałe zmiany w wyglądzie twarzy i głowy52
  • Problemy praktyczne w uprawianiu sportów i codziennym życiu, takie jak trudności z noszeniem niektórych rodzajów ochronnych nakryć głowy do sportów jak kolarstwo czy wspinaczka51
  • Potencjalne problemy psychospołeczne i emocjonalne w szkole i dorosłym życiu51
  • Niemożność noszenia pewnych fryzur z powodu chęci ukrycia nieprawidłowego kształtu głowy51
  • Niska samoocena i brak pewności co do wyglądu, co może znacząco wpływać na zdolność do socjalizacji51

Warto podkreślić, że umiarkowane i ciężkie przypadki plagiocephalii mogą nie poprawić się wyłącznie poprzez repozycjonowanie i mogą wymagać innych form leczenia, takich jak terapia z użyciem specjalnego kasku ortopedycznego51.

Kiedy rozpocząć leczenie

Wczesna interwencja jest kluczowa w leczeniu zespołu płaskiej głowy43. Najlepsze wyniki uzyskuje się, gdy leczenie rozpoczyna się przed 4-5 miesiącem życia, kiedy czaszka niemowlęcia jest nadal elastyczna i podatna na korektę53.

Jeśli rodzice zauważą jakiekolwiek oznaki plagiocephalii lub brachycephalii, powinni skonsultować się z lekarzem pediatrą lub fizjoterapeutą dziecięcym w celu oceny i ewentualnego leczenia39. Fizjoterapia rozpoczęta przed ukończeniem przez niemowlę 3 miesiąca życia często pozwala na poprawę kształtu głowy bez konieczności stosowania kasku39.

Badania wskazują, że jeśli plagiocephalia i brachycephalia nie poprawiają się samoistnie do około 5 miesiąca życia, prawdopodobnie nie poprawią się wcale bez dodatkowej pomocy53. W takich przypadkach może być zalecane bardziej zaawansowane leczenie, takie jak terapia z wykorzystaniem specjalnego kasku ortopedycznego lub opaski54.

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  1. 11.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 A pediatric epidemic: Deformational plagiocephaly/brachycephaly and congenital muscular torticollis
    https://www.contemporarypediatrics.com/view/pediatric-epidemic-deformational-plagiocephalybrachycephaly-and-congenital-muscular
    Pediatric healthcare providers are on the front lines to provide early identification and treatment of plagiocephaly/brachycephaly and torticollis for those infants spending more time supine/reclined and less time prone. […] The incidence of infant deformational plagiocephaly and brachycephaly (DPB) and congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) has been on an upward spiral since 1992 when the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) instituted the Back to Sleep campaign. […] Deformational plagiocephaly/brachycephaly occurs from prolonged pressure on the babys skull in utero or soon after birth, causing an asymmetric (plagiocephaly) and/or wide (brachycephalic) head shape. […] The skull is soft and malleable until ossification begins at age 5 to 6 months. […] When a baby develops a preferred position, the skull will flatten in that area.
  • #2 Plagiocephaly – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK564334/
    Plagiocephaly is defined as an asymmetric shape of the head due to unilateral flattening. The term flathead can be used as a synonym. Plagiocephaly can be categorized into synostotic or deformational types. […] The prevalence of deformational plagiocephaly is 15 to 20% of infants. However, a higher incidence of as much as 46.6% had been reported. […] In deformational plagiocephaly, satisfactory outcomes can be achieved with conservative treatments if the treatments are initiated at an early stage of the disease. The plasticity of the skull is good in infancy. […] Deformational plagiocephaly usually corrects with frequent repositioning of the baby; however, it can produce cosmetic deformities if not treated adequately.
  • #3 Plagiocephaly and brachycephaly (flat head syndrome)
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/plagiocephaly-brachycephaly/
    Babies sometimes develop a flattened head when they’re a few months old, usually as a result of them spending a lot of time lying on their back. […] Your baby will not experience any pain or other symptoms, or any problems with their general development. […] A slightly flattened head is not usually anything to worry about, but it’s a good idea to get advice early on so you can take steps to stop it getting any worse. […] Mild flattening of the head will usually improve if you use the simple measures described on this page, although it may be a couple of months before you start to notice an improvement. […] More severe cases will also get better over time, although some flattening will usually remain.
  • #4 Plagiocephaly and brachycephaly (flat head syndrome)
    https://www.babycentre.co.uk/a1042681/plagiocephaly-and-brachycephaly-flat-head-syndrome
    When a baby has a flattened area on his head at the back, or to one side, it’s called plagiocephaly. Plagiocephaly means oblique or slanting head, but most people just call it flat head syndrome. It usually corrects itself over time (NHS 2016). If the flattening is right across the back of your baby’s head, it’s called brachycephaly (NHS 2016). Your baby’s head may seem wide, and his forehead may bulge slightly (NHS 2016). Flat head syndrome is common in babies who are less than five months old (Gump et al 2016, Hutchison et al 2011, Looman and Flannery 2012). Your baby’s flat head was caused by persistent, gentle pressure on one place on his skull. After he’s born, your baby may develop a flat area on his head if he lies in the same position for long periods of time. This is normal for the early months, when your baby isn’t yet strong enough to move his head by himself (Loomis et al 2012). Flat head syndrome has become more common since health experts recommended that parents put babies down to sleep on their backs (Baird et al 2016, GOSHC 2017, Tamber et al 2016). Premature babies are more likely to develop flat head syndrome, because their skulls are very soft (GOSHC 2017, NHS 2016) and they may spend a long time lying in the neonatal unit on a respirator. Your baby may be more likely to have plagiocephaly if he’s a bit slow to roll, sit up and crawl. Both plagiocephaly and brachycephaly are harmless and won’t affect your baby, or the way his brain develops (GOSHC 2017, NHS 2016). In fact, it’s most likely that your child’s head will regain a more rounded shape by the time he’s two years old, if not before, either on its own or with treatment (NHS 2016). If your baby is only mildly affected, its likely that his head will round out over time, without you doing anything (GOSHC 2017). Usually, all these measures are enough to correct flat head syndrome and your baby won’t need any further treatment (Hutchison 2011, Tamber et al 2016). It may take a couple of months before you notice any difference, though, so try not to worry if it seems to be taking a while (NHS 2016).
  • #5 Flat Head Syndrome: When to Worry & What to Do | Growing Bones
    https://www.growingbones.com.au/my-baby-has-a-flat-spot-when-should-i-be-concerned/
    Plagiocephaly and brachycephaly are two of the most common types of flat head syndrome, affecting 48% of babies. […] Plagiocephaly is the term to describe an asymmetrical head shape with a flattening to one side of the head. With mild plagiocephaly, if you look at the back of your baby’s head, you may notice that your baby has only a slight flattening of one side. With moderate to severe plagiocephaly, ear shift and other facial changes occur as the head moves into a parallelogram shape. You may notice that one of your baby’s eyes looks bigger, or higher than the other, one ear sticks out more, and their forehead on the same side as the flattening is more prominent. You may also notice mouth or jaw deviation to one side. […] Brachycephaly is the term to describe symmetrical flattening of the back of the head, severity can also range from mild to severe. With mild brachycephaly, you may notice a slight central flattening of the back of your baby’s head. With more severe brachycephaly, you will notice your baby’s head seems wide and face can be full moon shaped, but there is usually very little change in face symmetry.
  • #6 Guide | Physical Therapy Guide to Flat Head Syndrome: Plagiocephaly, Brachycephaly, and Dolichocephaly | Choose PT
    https://www.choosept.com/guide/physical-therapy-guide-to-head-shape-flatness-in-infants-plagiocephaly
    Infant flat head syndrome is an atypical flattening or deformation of the skull that may present as: […] Plagiocephaly (back of the head is flat on one side in a „slant”). […] Brachycephaly (flat across the back of the head on both sides). […] The main cause of flat head syndrome is the baby’s positioning within their environment. […] Physical therapists help determine the cause of the head flattening and the best treatment. […] The sooner a family sees a physical therapist, the better the chances of improving or preventing further head shape deformities. […] Plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and dolichocephaly are different types of infant flat head syndrome. […] These shape types are caused by external forces on the baby’s head before or after birth. […] Plagiocephaly is the most common type of infant flat head syndrome.
  • #7 Plagiocephaly and brachycephaly – misshapen head
    https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Plagiocephaly_and_brachycephaly_-_misshapen_head/
    Plagiocephaly and brachycephaly are common conditions where a babys head is misshapen. […] Some babies are born with a misshapen head; others develop a misshapen head after birth. […] Plagiocephaly and brachycephaly may change a babys physical appearance, but they do not affect brain growth. […] Plagiocephaly is a condition where a babys head is flat on one side. It causes the head to appear misshapen or uneven. Plagiocephaly is common and does not affect brain growth. If left untreated, it may change a babys physical appearance by causing their face and head to grow unevenly. […] Brachycephaly is where the back of a babys head is flat. Like plagiocephaly, brachycephaly does not affect brain growth. However, it may change a babys physical appearance. In some cases, the forehead may also bulge out and the face may widen.
  • #8 Guide | Physical Therapy Guide to Flat Head Syndrome: Plagiocephaly, Brachycephaly, and Dolichocephaly | Choose PT
    https://www.choosept.com/guide/physical-therapy-guide-to-head-shape-flatness-in-infants-plagiocephaly
    Brachycephaly is the second most common type of flat head syndrome. […] Dolichocephaly is the flattening of the head from side to side. […] The following conditions also may be present with flat head syndrome: Torticollis. […] Head shape deformities, especially if left untreated, can lead to: Feeding issues […] Speech and language delays. […] Visual problems, including a limited field of vision […] Delayed cognitive (thinking and learning) and motor (movement) skills development. […] The pediatrician should rule out craniosynostosis. […] Infants with any uneven postures or positions should be referred to a pediatric physical therapist for evaluation as soon as flattening is noticed; do not wait until the next well visit. […] The sooner a baby sees a pediatric physical therapist, the more likely it is to prevent further loss of range of motion or a worsening of the flattened skull.
  • #9 Plagiocephaly vs Brachycephaly | The Key Differences
    https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/key-differences-plagiocephaly-brachycephaly
    Facial asymmetry and the eyes differing in size and position (one eye can appear lower or smaller than the other eye). This can also cause the brow area to bulge outwards. […] A combination of brachycephaly and plagiocephaly can also commonly be found together, presenting itself as a wide, asymmetric head shape. […] Pressure on the head after birth is one of the most common plagiocephaly causes, particularly where a lot of time is spent resting the head against flat surfaces. This problem is made worse by conditions like torticollis, a tightening of the neck muscle on one side, which can be treated through physiotherapy. […] We recommend that parents start repositioning as soon as a flattening becomes apparent. This can help prevent plagiocephaly and brachycephaly from getting worse and may even assist in its reversal.
  • #10 Pediatric Plagiocephaly – Conditions and Treatments | Children’s National Hospital
    https://www.childrensnational.org/get-care/health-library/plagiocephaly
    Plagiocephaly describes a condition in which a babys skull is flattened on one side of the back or front of the head. Plagiocephaly can be congenital (present at birth) or develop during infancy (positional or deformational). […] Common symptoms of the positional type may include: Flattening on one side of the back of the head, Ear pushed forward, Head tilted to one side, Bulging forehead, Facial abnormalities. […] Symptoms of congenital plagiocephaly include: Missing, full, or bulging „soft spot” (fontanel), Bony ridges, Facial abnormalities, Prominent blood vessels in the scalp, Poor feeding or projectile vomiting, Seizures. […] Symptoms of plagiocephaly differ depending on which type your child may have. Common symptoms of the positional type may include: Flattening on one side of the back of the head, Ear pushed forward on the same side of the head, Head tilted to one side, Bulging forehead on the same side of the head, Facial abnormalities including uneven cheekbones, eye sockets, or lower jaw.
  • #11 Flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly and brachycephaly) – Health Under 5s
    https://healthforunder5s.co.uk/sections/baby/flat-head-syndrome-plagiocephaly-and-brachycephaly/
    Babies can sometimes develop a flattened head, known as flat head syndrome, as a result of long periods on their back. […] Flat head syndrome is common and affects around 1 in 5 babies. General development is not affected by flat head syndrome, and your baby will not experience any pain or other symptoms because of the condition. […] Mild flattening will usually improve over time, but it can take a couple of months to notice any improvements. […] There are two main types of flat head syndrome, plagiocephaly and brachycephaly. […] Babies with plagiocephaly may have: Flattened heads on one side, which may look asymmetrical. Their heads can look like a parallelogram from above. […] In brachycephaly: The rear of the head is flattened, this might cause the head to widen.
  • #12 Assessment of Baby Head Shapes | Plagiocephaly & Brachycephaly | Starband
    https://starbandkids.com/resources/clinical-assessment-of-head-shapes/
    Presents as an asymmetrical (uneven) head shape. The back of one side of the head will be flattened, often pushing the forehead and ear on the same side forward. […] The most common type of skull deformity in infants. […] Usually noticed by caregivers at about six to ten weeks of age. […] Characterized by an asymmetrical skull shape. […] Unilateral occipital flattening. […] The ear is positioned more anterior on the side of the occipital flattening. […] The forehead may be asymmetrical and is positioned more anteriorly on the side of the occipital flattening. […] Facial asymmetry may be present. […] It may be accompanied by torticollis, limited neck range of motion, weakness, and preferential head positioning. […] Evaluation by a physician or orthotist is recommended for deformational plagiocephaly Types 3-5.
  • #13 Flat Head Baby (Plagiocephaly): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
    https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/flat-head-baby
    Flat head syndrome, known as plagiocephaly, occurs when a flat spot develops on the back or side of a babys head. Its more of a cosmetic issue than a medical one. But, early diagnosis is better. […] Plagiocephaly may cause a babys head to look asymmetrical. Some describe the head as looking like a parallelogram when observed from above. […] It may take several months for signs of flat head syndrome to appear. Check for signs of plagiocephaly during bath time when your babys hair is wet and their head shape is most visible. […] Signs to look for include: A flattened area on the side or back of the head. Instead of being round, the head may appear slanted in a certain area. Ears that arent even. A flattening of the head can cause the ears to appear misaligned. A bald spot in one area of the head. Bony ridges on the skull. Lack of a soft spot (or fontanel) on the head.
  • #14 Plagiocephaly vs Brachycephaly | The Key Differences
    https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/key-differences-plagiocephaly-brachycephaly
    Facial asymmetry and the eyes differing in size and position (one eye can appear lower or smaller than the other eye). This can also cause the brow area to bulge outwards. […] A combination of brachycephaly and plagiocephaly can also commonly be found together, presenting itself as a wide, asymmetric head shape. […] Pressure on the head after birth is one of the most common plagiocephaly causes, particularly where a lot of time is spent resting the head against flat surfaces. This problem is made worse by conditions like torticollis, a tightening of the neck muscle on one side, which can be treated through physiotherapy. […] We recommend that parents start repositioning as soon as a flattening becomes apparent. This can help prevent plagiocephaly and brachycephaly from getting worse and may even assist in its reversal.
  • #15
    https://koalababycare.com/blogs/koalavibes/head-shape-disorders-in-infants
    70% of infants tend to experience a higher degree of flattening on the right side. […] An infant who develops Plagiocephaly, tends to lie more on one side of their head than the other. There are different levels of severity of the disorder. […] During initial stages, the skull becomes progressively more deformed in an asymmetrical manner and part of the neck is also flattened (TYPE I). […] If no action is taken to curb the leading cause of the deformity, more serious abnormalities may gradually occur. […] As it develops further, and flattening becomes more prominent, it may cause the ear (on the flattened side) to move forward, thus resulting in misalignment. […] As the skull bones continue to displace, the forehead on the flattened side becomes more pronounced, and may develop a small bulge-like appearance.
  • #16
  • #17 Brachycephaly: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/brachycephaly
    Brachycephaly makes the back of your babys head look flat. Its common and most often happens from your baby lying on their back too frequently. Most cases are temporary and go away on their own. But some cases of brachycephaly require surgical treatment. […] Brachycephaly happens when the back of your babys head has a flattened appearance. The back of their skull may look shorter and wider than whats typical. […] Brachycephaly is a type of positional plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome). Its common and usually doesnt cause long-lasting health or developmental issues. Most cases improve naturally or with simple management strategies. […] The main sign is flatness in the back of your babys head. They may have a wider-than-typical head shape sometimes, wider than it is long, from front to back.
  • #18 Assessment of Baby Head Shapes | Plagiocephaly & Brachycephaly | Starband
    https://starbandkids.com/resources/clinical-assessment-of-head-shapes/
    Presents as an abnormally wide head shape resulting from a central flattening of the back of the head. You may notice a bulging forehead and increased height of the back of the head in the side view. This shape can also be asymmetrical. […] Central occipital flattening. […] Increased cranial vault height posteriorly. The head is excessively wide for its length. […] It may be accompanied by a prominent, bossed forehead. […] Evaluation by a physician or orthotist is recommended for deformational plagiocephaly Types 3-5.
  • #19 Flat head syndrome – what is it? | Braceworks Custom Orthotics
    https://braceworks.ca/2018/09/27/health-tech/flat-head-syndrome-what-is-it/
    The term Flat Head Syndrome is another term for Plagiocephaly. Plagiocephaly is a blanket word for covering three different types of flattening on a child’s head. […] All three terms describe the flattening on different areas of a child’s head. Brachycephaly and Plagiocephaly are the most common, however, it is not uncommon for a child to have both Plagiocephaly and Brachycephaly together. […] Plagiocephaly describes the flattening on one side on the child’s head. This type of flattening is commonly associated with a parallelogram shaped head, a shift forward of the ear and a more prominent forehead on the same side as the flattening and possibly the eyes appearing to have unequal positioning. […] Brachycephaly describes a flattening across the back of a child’s head. This type of flattening is commonly associated with a loss of definition of the neck line, a wide head shape, prominent bony lumps above the ears, a bossed / protruding forehead and possibly an excessively high height of head.
  • #20 Flat Head Syndrome – What is it? – Align Clinics
    https://alignclinics.co.uk/flat-head-syndrome-what-is-it/
    Plagiocephaly describes the flattening on one side on the childs head. This type of flattening is commonly associated with a parallelogram shaped head, a shift forward of the ear and a more prominent forehead on the same side as the flattening and possibly the eyes appearing to have unequal positioning. […] Brachycephaly describes a flattening across the back of a childs head. This type of flattening is commonly associated with a loss of definition of the neck line, a wide head shape, prominent bony lumps above the ears, a bossed / protruding forehead and possibly an excessively high height of head. […] The flattening occurs due to an external force exerted onto the childs head for a prolonged period of time. Due to the soft, malleable, mobile characteristics a childs skull has, the external force, when left in contact for a length of time can cause a flattening in the corresponding area.
  • #21 Flat Head Baby (Plagiocephaly): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
    https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/flat-head-baby
    Positional plagiocephaly is considered more of a cosmetic issue than a medical one. In the majority of cases, it doesnt affect brain development or growth. Most cases improve as the child gets older and spends more time sitting, crawling, and standing. […] The earlier plagiocephaly is recognized and steps are taken to reduce it, the better the chances are for the condition to be resolved. […] Signs of plagiocephaly can become apparent to parents when their babies are about 6 to 8 weeks old, and many pediatricians examine a baby for skull deformities at every checkup during infancy. […] Plagiocephaly is common in babies. While it can temporarily cause a misshapen head and possible misalignment of ears and eyes, the effects are generally mild and tend to resolve as a baby ages and becomes more mobile. […] Positional plagiocephaly doesnt affect brain development and, in many cases, it needs no medical intervention and resolves on its own.
  • #22 Plagiocephaly–Flat Head SyndromeCircleBumpCheckedFilledMedicalBookmarkBookmarkTickBookmarkAddCheckBoxCheckBoxFilled
    https://www.thebump.com/a/plagiocephaly-flat-head-syndrome
    You may not have heard the term plagiocephaly (that’s pronounced pley-jee-uh-SEF-uh-lee in case you were wondering), but you might have heard of flat head syndrome. “The word plagiocephaly actually just means ‘flat head,’” says Michael L. Cunningham, MD, PhD, medical director of Seattle Children’s Craniofacial Center and division chief of craniofacial medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine. So what is plagiocephaly, exactly? It’s an umbrella term used to describe an infant’s flat or deformed head shape, and while it sounds alarming, it’s usually pretty harmless. In fact, once baby starts to sit up, plagiocephaly often disappears on its own within months. […] If you’re concerned baby might have plagiocephaly, examine their skull and look for any asymmetric abnormalities or flat spots. You may also notice baby has less hair on one side or area of their head.
  • #23
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_positional_plagio_brachycephaly_inst
    Head shape changes are common in babies. A flat area can develop quickly on your babys head in the first 4 months. Most often, flat spots develop from your baby lying with their head in the same position for long periods of time. The 2 most common changes to head shape are plagiocephaly and brachycephaly. […] If your baby has a flat spot on one side of the back of their head, this is called plagiocephaly. You may notice that their ear, forehead, and cheek may be more forward on the same side as the flat spot. […] If your baby has a flat spot across the back of their head, this is called brachycephaly. You may notice widening across the back of the head, or the forehead sloping upward from the front to the back of the head. […] Flat spots can be prevented and treated when caught early. If theres a large head shape change, your doctor may recommend other treatment and more support from a pediatric physiotherapist.
  • #24 Brachycephalie bij baby’s begrijpen: Een gids voor ouders
    https://www.skullycare.com/for-parents/brachycephaly-guide-articles/brachycephaly-guide-for-parents
    Plagiocephaly, often called „flat head syndrome,” is a condition where a babys head becomes flat or uneven in shape. Its quite common in babies under six months old, and usually happens because of pressure on one part of the babys head. […] Around 2 to 3 months of age is when plagiocephaly is most common, affecting almost 20% of babies. Until your baby starts rolling and moving more, the condition may worsen. And, good to know, untill your baby is 12 months old, the headshape can improve. […] With early intervention and the right care, the vast majority of babies see their head shape return to normal as they develop and begin moving more. However, if the flattening is severe and left untreated, it can persist into later years, even into adulthood. […] Plagiocephaly or flat head syndrome, is a condition where a babys skull becomes flattened on one side or in certain areas. Recognizing plagiocephaly early is important, as timely intervention can help correct the shape of the skull and prevent future complications.
  • #25
    https://koalababycare.com/blogs/koalavibes/head-shape-disorders-in-infants
    If left untreated, the severity continues to increase and begins to affect the position of the eyes, cheekbones, jaw, and nasal septum, causing asymmetricity in the babys face. […] Eventually, the skull starts to grow upwards. […] Flat head syndrome prior to birth is mainly due to a restriction or reduction in movement of the foetus inside the womb. […] The fact that babies spend a considerable amount of time sleeping or resting on their backs for safety reasons, is also considered to be one of the causes of cranial deformities. […] If an infant spends too much time lying on their back, their neck muscles may develop the same level of strength, which, in turn, keeps their head straight. This can cause the back of their head to flatten, thus, resulting in brachycephaly. […] If, on the other hand, an infant tends to turn to one side, or if they are always held on the same side, one side of their head will flatten more prominently, resulting in posterior positional plagiocephaly. The longer a baby spends in the same position, the greater the severity of the deformity.
  • #26 Plagiocephaly | Boston Children’s Hospital
    https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/plagiocephaly
    Plagiocephaly, also known as deformational plagiocephaly or positional plagiocephaly, is a common and treatable condition that causes a baby’s soft skull to become flattened in one area due to continuous pressure on that part of the head. […] Plagiocephaly can develop when a baby consistently sleeps in the same position. It’s often most noticeable during the first few months of life and usually peaks between 6 weeks and 3 months. Plagiocephaly tends to improve once babies gain strength and muscle maturity, tolerate longer stretches of tummy time, and achieve motor milestones such as rolling over belly to back and back to belly. […] Typically, the only symptom of plagiocephaly is a flattened appearance of a baby’s head. It’s also not uncommon to notice a bump on the back of your baby’s head, asymmetrical ears, or an uneven forehead.
  • #27 Plagiocephaly | Boston Children’s Hospital
    https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/plagiocephaly
    Plagiocephaly isn’t painful and doesn’t affect a baby’s day-to-day life or abilities. […] Most parents and caregivers notice the flattening of their baby’s head at around 6 to 8 weeks old. […] Head flattening usually stops when babies gain head control, typically at around three months. A premature infant or a baby with developmental delays may have flattening for longer since they may take longer to reach physical milestones such as head control and rolling over. […] Plagiocephaly is a treatable condition that causes cosmetic changes in a baby’s skull shape. Plagiocephaly responds well to non-surgical treatments, such as changes in sleep position, offering tummy time during the day, exercises or physical therapy, and helmeting.
  • #28 Flat Head Syndrome (Positional Plagiocephaly) (for Parents) | Nemours KidsHealth
    https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/positional-plagiocephaly.html
    Flat head syndrome usually happens when a baby sleeps with the head turned to the same side during first months of life. This causes a flat spot, either on one side or the back of the head. […] Flattened head syndrome usually is easy for parents to notice: The back of the baby’s head is flatter on one side. The baby usually has less hair on that part of the head. When looking down at the baby’s head, the ear on the flattened side may look pushed forward. […] In severe cases, the forehead might bulge on the side opposite from the flattening, and may look uneven. If torticollis is the cause, the neck, jaw, and face also might be uneven. […] Flat head syndrome improves with time and natural growth. As babies grow, they begin to change position themselves during sleep, so their heads aren’t in the same position. […] When babies can sit on their own, a flat spot usually won’t get any worse. Then, over months and years, as the skull grows, the flattening will improve, even in severe cases. As hair grows in over the first few years, the flat spot often becomes less noticeable as well.
  • #29 Positional Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome) | Pediatric Neurosurgery | University Hospitals Rainbow & Children’s | University Hospitals | Cleveland, OH | University Hospitals
    https://www.uhhospitals.org/rainbow/services/pediatric-neurosurgery/conditions-and-treatments/positional-plagiocephaly
    What is positional plagiocephaly? Also known as flat head syndrome, positional plagiocephaly is a condition in which an area of an infant’s head develops an abnormally flattened shape. The condition usually occurs when an infant always sleeps with its head turned to the same side during the first few months of life. […] The main symptoms are: The back of the babys head is flatter on one side. On the flatter part of the head, the infant typically has less hair. The ear on the flattened side of the head may appear pushed forward when you look down at the babys head. […] In severe cases, the childs forehead may bulge on the side of the flattening and may appear uneven. If torticollis is the cause of the positional plagiocephaly, the face, neck and jaw might be uneven, too. […] As they grow older, babies start to change position themselves while sleeping so that their heads arent always in the same position. Once a baby can sit on their own, their flat spot usually will not worsen. Over months and years as the skull grows, the flattening will improve, even in severe cases. In addition, the flat spot often becomes less noticeable as hair grows in over the childs first few years of life. […] Positional Plagiocephaly does not affect the growth of child’s brain. However, neck stiffness can slow early development. Physical therapy for torticollis will usually include evaluation of the infant’s progress and additional exercises to address any delays.
  • #30
    https://111.wales.nhs.uk/plagiocephalyandbrachycephaly(flatheadsyndrome)/
    Babies sometimes develop a flattened head when they’re a few months old, usually as a result of them spending a lot of time lying on their back. […] Your baby will not experience any pain or other symptoms, or any problems with their general development. […] A slightly flattened head is not usually anything to worry about, but it’s a good idea to get advice early on so you can take steps to stop it getting any worse. […] Mild flattening of the head will usually improve if you use the simple measures described on this page, although it may be a couple of months before you start to notice an improvement. […] Your baby’s head may not return to a completely perfect shape, but by the time they’re 1 or 2 years old any flattening will be barely noticeable. […] More severe cases will also get better over time, although some flattening will usually remain.
  • #31 Plagiocephaly and brachycephaly (flat head syndrome) | Health Information from Plesk Pharmacy
    https://pleckpharmacy.co.uk/nhs_conditions_plagiocephaly-brachycephaly
    Your baby will not experience any pain or other symptoms, or any problems with their general development. […] A slightly flattened head is not usually anything to worry about, but it’s a good idea to get advice early on so you can take steps to stop it getting any worse. […] The shape of your baby’s head should improve naturally over time as their skull develops and they start moving their head, rolling around and crawling. […] Mild flattening of the head will usually improve if you use the simple measures described on this page, although it may be a couple of months before you start to notice an improvement. […] Your baby’s head may not return to a completely perfect shape, but by the time they’re 1 or 2 years old any flattening will be barely noticeable. […] More severe cases will also get better over time, although some flattening will usually remain.
  • #32 Flat Head Syndrome – PK OSTEOPATHY
    http://pkosteopathy.weebly.com/flat-head-syndrome.html
    Flat Head Syndrome (FHS) refers to a flattening on the back of the head (the cranial bone there is called the occiput) – in the centre brachycephaly, or on either side of the back of the head – plagiocephaly. The asymmetrical flattening may also involve varying degrees of forehead protrusion and asymmetry of ear position on the same side, and some facial asymmetry. FHS may affect 1 in 5 infants in the first 1-6 months of life, but the exact prevalence remains unclear. It is generally graded as mild, moderate and severe, although there isn’t an internationally recognised standardisation of categorisation. Research indicates that FHS does not always correct spontaneously. The incidence of flat head syndrome has increased in the past few decades, after the success of the Back to Sleep campaign introduced in 1994. The main aim is to limit the time your baby spends in positions creating pressure on the flattened part of their skull. Research suggests that it can take 6-8 weeks before any improvement is visible, and the earlier the intervention starts the quicker the results. Head shape can continue to improve up to 2 years of age, and a Dutch study suggests that by 5 years of age, the severity of positional plagiocephaly is within the normal range in 80% of children, within the mild range in 19%, and within the moderate to severe range in only 1%.
  • #33 Flat Head Syndrome (Positional Plagiocephaly)
    https://www.theperfectnoggin.com/post/flat-head-syndrome-positional-plagiocephaly?srsltid=AfmBOooXjuflDRL_LCmygyKPVRuO147CEks7T7tQLspF3aimJbsD9_oV
    For mild cases, the aesthetic impact of head flattening is transient. Even more severe cases gradually improve in appearance, although some head flattening may persist into adulthood. In fact, it is estimated that 12% of adults have some degree of plagiocephaly, and an equal number have brachycephaly. Nevertheless, these differences are rarely noticed on other individuals in everyday life.
  • #34
    https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/Cleft-Craniofacial/Pages/Positional-Skull-Deformities-and-Torticollis.aspx
    Positional skull deformities do not affect brain growth or intellectual development. They are purely cosmetic, and the majority do not require surgery. […] In some cases, your baby’s doctor may recommend treatment for positional skull deformity, particularly those with moderate or severe head flattening.
  • #35 Flat Head Syndrome | Complete Physio
    https://complete-physio.co.uk/services/flat-head-syndrome/
    It is important to stress that your baby will not experience any pain or other symptoms, or any problems with their general development. […] Families are often concerned that positional skull deformity may cause developmental delays. Although there have been no rigorous prospective studies to address this concern, there is currently no evidence to suggest that positional skull deformity causes developmental delays. […] The early detection of Flat Head Syndrome is important and is often initially identified by your health visitor or maternity nurse shortly after birth. However, parents also play a vital role in noticing any unusual shapes or flat spots on their babys head. […] You may notice the flattening of your babys head by 6 to 8 weeks of age. There are no specific tests. […] Early identification allows for the timely implementation of corrective measures, potentially lessening the need for longer term treatment.
  • #36 What is flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly or brachycephaly)? | NCT
    https://www.nct.org.uk/information/baby-toddler/baby-and-toddler-health/what-flat-head-syndrome-plagiocephaly-or-brachycephaly
    When babies are a few months old, they sometimes develop a flattened head. Thats usually because they spend a lot of time lying on their backs or with their head turned to one side when theyre tiny. If this happens, its called flat head syndrome. Plagiocephaly and brachycephaly describe the two main types of this condition (NHS, 2018). […] Other than the physical appearance of it, there are no symptoms of plagiocephaly and brachycephaly (GOSH, 2018). […] Generally, flat head syndrome is seen as a purely cosmetic condition that does not have any effect on how the babys brain develops. Whilst it does not cause any pressure on the baby’s brain (GOSH, 2017), some researchers suggest plagiocephaly may be a marker of elevated risk of developmental delays (Martiniuk et al, 2017). And others agree that the relationship between abnormal neonatal cranial shape and early developmental delays isn’t very well understood.
  • #37 Ottobock | About Plagiocephaly (“Flat Head Syndrome”)
    https://www.ottobock.com/en-us/plagiocephaly
    Plagiocephaly, or flat head syndrome, is when a baby develops a flat area on the front, back, or side of their head. This condition is common in infants, and can be readily treated in several different ways. […] Many infants with positional plagiocephaly will grow out of the condition as they try new sleeping positions and become more active. But in some more severe or untreated cases, flat head syndrome can impact a babys body and health in several ways: […] Some medical research suggests that plagiocephaly may potentially delay some babies development of motor, language, and social skills. […] Plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and scaphocephaly all typically develop in the first year of an infants life. Early signs of flat head syndrome may start to appear as early as 6-8 weeks after birth, but often become more noticeable once a baby is several months old.
  • #38 Neurodevelopmental Implications of “Deformational” Plagiocephaly
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3393045/
    Plagiocephaly is a broad term referring to cranial asymmetry. Plagiocephaly can result from the premature fusion of one or more cranial sutures (i.e., synostotic plagiocephaly or craniosynostosis), but is more commonly due to external forces shaping the infants skull, such as intra-uterine constraint, twinning, or invariant sleeping position. This is called deformational plagiocephaly (DP). Conditions that limit infants mobility, such as isolated torticollis, hypotonia, and cervical spine anomalies, are also associated with DP. Typical manifestations include a parallelogram shaped skull, with flattening of the left or right occiput, ipsilateral frontal bossing, and contralateral occipital bulging. Other common presentations include brachycephaly (flattening of the central occiput) and dolichocephaly (flattening of both sides of the skull). Severity varies widely, ranging from mild flattening to notable asymmetry with secondary ipsilateral anterior ear displacement and/or mild mandibular and maxillary deformation. There are few data on the effects of DP on infants neurodevelopment or other outcomes, perhaps because the condition has been considered so benign. However, recent studies of children with single-suture synostoses indicate significantly elevated risk for developmental delays and subsequent learning disorders. These findings have prompted investigators to reconsider the neurodevelopmental implications of DP, with initial studies tentatively suggesting that children with DP also have elevated risk of developmental delays or deficits. Overall, findings suggest that isolated craniosynostosis is associated with a 3- to 5-fold increase in risk for cognitive deficits or learning/language disabilities. Studies of neurodevelopmental outcomes for infants with DP have just begun to emerge. The results from these two lines of research are briefly reviewed below. Overall, the results of this study suggested that school-aged children with DP were at increased risk for developmental delays and required special education services more frequently than their non-affected siblings. This effect was only observed in males, and was most notable for those who manifested cranial asymmetry at birth. Taken together, the results of these studies very tentatively suggest that DP is associated with increased risk for developmental delay; however, a causal association should not be presumed.
  • #39 Frequently Asked Questions About Positional Plagiocephaly | Little Feet Therapy | Pediatric Occupational & Physical Therapy Clinic
    https://littlefeettherapy.com/frequently-asked-questions-about-positional-plagiocephaly/
    In fact, plagiocephaly occurs in up to 50% of babies. […] If your baby does not receive treatment, their plagiocephaly symptoms may worsen. […] More severe cases of plagiocephaly may cause: Feeding issues, A limited field of vision, Issues with balance and coordination, Delays in speech and language development, Delays in gross motor skills development, Delays in fine motor skills development, Delays in thinking and learning skills development, ADHD. […] If you suspect your baby may have plagiocephaly, its a good idea to book an assessment with a pediatric physical therapist. […] If physical therapy begins before your baby is 3 months old, their head is typically reshaped without a cranial band.
  • #40 Plagiocephaly or flat head in babies | Raising Children Network
    https://raisingchildren.net.au/newborns/health-daily-care/health-concerns/plagiocephaly
    Plagiocephaly is an uneven or asymmetrical head shape a flat head. It can also be a flattened spot on the back or side of a babys head. Plagiocephaly can be mild, moderate or severe. […] Your baby might have an uneven head shape, a flat head or flattened sections at the back or side of their head. Your babys ears might look uneven, and their forehead might be more prominent compared to the rest of their head. […] See your GP or child and family health nurse if youre concerned about your babys head shape, or your baby has: a strangely shaped head or a flat spot, which hasnt gone back to a typical shape by about 2 months of age; a strong preference for turning their head to one side; difficulty turning their head left or right. […] Often, mild plagiocephaly doesnt need treatment. Its likely to fix itself as your baby grows. […] For severe plagiocephaly, your specialist might recommend that your child wears a specially fitted helmet, which takes the pressure off the flat spot and allows your childs head shape to change as their head grows.
  • #41 Flat Head Syndrome: When to Worry & What to Do | Growing Bones
    https://www.growingbones.com.au/my-baby-has-a-flat-spot-when-should-i-be-concerned/
    Compensatory changes occur because your baby’s skull is soft and deforms to maintain the same volume for the growing brain. […] If your baby has a flat head, when to worry see your GP or Paediatrician if any of the following are present: the skull and facial asymmetry may be more severe than described and pictured above. This can be due to early fusion of one or more cranial sutures (craniosynostosis). […] Developmental delay of gross motor, fine motor, social, visual or auditory milestones. […] A strangely shaped head or a flat spot, which hasn’t gone back to a typical shape by about 2 months of age. […] A strong preference for turning their head to one side. […] Difficulty turning their head left or right.
  • #42
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_positional_plagio_brachycephaly_inst
    Its important to make sure to get advice from your doctor and a physiotherapist if you notice changes in your babys head shape. Your baby will have the best results if you notice changes early and deal with them right away. […] See your doctor and a physiotherapist for more help if youve been using these positioning strategies consistently and your baby is 5 months or older and still has changes in their head shape.
  • #43 Brachycephalie bij baby’s begrijpen: Een gids voor ouders
    https://www.skullycare.com/for-parents/brachycephaly-guide-articles/brachycephaly-guide-for-parents
    The earlier you start, the better. […] If you have already tried the three steps and the preference or flatness persists by the time your baby reaches 6 weeks, it may be time to seek professional help. […] Early intervention is key to achieving the best outcome. […] The best time to begin preventing flat head syndrome is right from the startideally as soon as you notice your baby has a preferred head position. […] If you notice a flat spot forming or a significant tilt in your babys head, dont wait to seek help. […] The more you practice positioning your baby on the other side of their face during awake times, the more they will get used to it. […] With early and consistent attention, many babies can avoid needing helmet therapy altogether.
  • #44 Guide | Physical Therapy Guide to Flat Head Syndrome: Plagiocephaly, Brachycephaly, and Dolichocephaly | Choose PT
    https://www.choosept.com/guide/physical-therapy-guide-to-head-shape-flatness-in-infants-plagiocephaly
    Correct positioning and regularly changing a baby’s environment are keys to preventing acquired (after birth) flat head syndrome. […] Families and caregivers should seek early screening of their newborns for any neck range of motion problems and a flat spot on the baby’s skull. […] The sooner a baby sees a pediatric physical therapist, the sooner prevention or correction of muscle tightness and flattening of the skull can occur.
  • #45 Craniosynostosis | Causes, Symptoms, Types & Treatment | CHOC
    https://choc.org/neuroscience/craniosynostosis/
    Sometimes, a baby’s head will become misshapen when they spend a lot of time on their back, or because of problems with their neck muscles (torticollis). This is called positional plagiocephaly, or “flat head syndrome.” […] Most of the time, the head deformity is simply positional plagiocephaly, a benign condition that does not require surgical intervention. However, some deformities are caused by craniosynostosis. Similar to craniosynostosis, plagiocephaly can cause flat spots and bulging areas on the head and forehead, but it is not craniosynostosis because no fusion of the cranial sutures has happened. It is important to get your child properly diagnosed to avoid getting these two conditions confused. […] Positional plagiocephaly can often be treated by repositioning your baby’s head when they’re laying down. For some babies, physical therapy may be prescribed to help their neck muscles. If this does not reverse your baby’s plagiocephaly, a custom helmet may be recommended. Helmet therapy is most effective before 6 months of age, so the earlier treatment can start, the more effective it can be.
  • #46 Cranial Disorders and Head Shape | Mount Sinai – New York
    https://www.mountsinai.org/care/pediatrics/services/pediatric-neurosurgery/craniosynostosis
    Evidence-based guidelines recommend that even in moderate to severe cases of positional plagiocephaly, helmets may be considered if observation, repositioning therapy and physical therapy are unsuccessful. […] If your child does not respond to conservative treatment, has severe motor deficits, or is diagnosed at a later age, then helmet therapy may be considered. […] In craniosynostosis there is a premature fusion of one or more cranial sutures, resulting in restricted growth of the skull in ways that are unique to each suture. The appearance of the head shape will differ depending on which sutures are fused. […] Craniosynostosis can be detected as early as birth. It is important to diagnose craniosynostosis in a timely manner to facilitate normal skull and brain development, as well as allow for the option of a minimally invasive surgical approach. […] It can at times be difficult to differentiate normal physiologic development from craniosynostosis. A formal diagnosis can usually be made with a physical examination, but sometimes more subtle findings may require imaging.
  • #47 Pediatric Plagiocephaly – Conditions and Treatments | Children’s National Hospital
    https://www.childrensnational.org/get-care/health-library/plagiocephaly
    Symptoms of congenital plagiocephaly include: Missing, full, or bulging „soft spot” (fontanel) on the newborn’s skull, Bony ridges along the affected sutures, Facial abnormalities including bulging forehead and brow on one side, uneven cheekbones, eye sockets, or lower jaw, Prominent blood vessels in the scalp, Poor feeding or projectile vomiting, Seizures.
  • #48 Brachycephaly: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/brachycephaly
    About 9 out of 10 babies with this condition will also have some level of torticollis. This affects your babys neck muscles. It causes their head to twist and tilt to one side. […] Pressure on the back of your babys skull causes this condition. It happens because babies skulls are soft and somewhat moldable. This allows your babys brain room to grow. It also means that too much pressure on a certain area of their skull may change the shape of their head. […] The main complication of untreated positional brachycephaly is differences in how your babys head looks (aesthetic concerns). This type rarely affects your babys brain development. […] If its not treated, synostotic brachycephaly or the resulting increased intracranial pressure can lead to developmental delays, seizures, and persistent head or facial deformities.
  • #49 A pediatric epidemic: Deformational plagiocephaly/brachycephaly and congenital muscular torticollis
    https://www.contemporarypediatrics.com/view/pediatric-epidemic-deformational-plagiocephalybrachycephaly-and-congenital-muscular
    If the misshapen area is unilateral, the ear, forehead, and cheek will shift anteriorly and impact cosmesis. […] If the misshapen area is bilateral, the back of the head will widen and may look tall or turricephalic. […] Incidence of DPB ranges from 18% to 19.7%. […] Congenital muscular torticollis occurs when the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle becomes shortened or restricted unilaterally. […] The head then turns to the opposite side and/or tilts downward to the same side, resulting in a preferred head position. […] It becomes difficult for the infant to independently alter head position, and prolonged pressure on the same area occurs when the infant is in a reclined position or sleeping. […] The 2 diagnoses usually occur together, creating a synergistic effect. […] Additionally, DPB is strongly associated with CMT-as high as 70% to 95%.
  • #50 The Long Term Effects of Plagiocephaly
    https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/the-long-term-effects-of-plagiocephaly
    According to official NHS advice, untreated plagiocephaly will 'usually improve’ over time, advising parents that, 'your baby’s head may not return to a completely perfect shape, but by the time they’re one or two years old, any flattening will be barely noticeable’, and, 'the appearance of your child’s head should improve as they become more mobile and their hair grows’. […] Many children, and indeed as they grow into adults, have fine or short hair, in which case a misshapen head cannot be hidden by hair growth. Additionally, this summary provided by the NHS does not recognise the practical, developmental and psychological implications of untreated plagiocephaly. […] In recent years, more research has appeared surrounding plagiocephaly and its long-term effects. These include its physical, developmental and psychological impacts, which can become more apparent as infants age and when treatment is too late.
  • #51 The Long Term Effects of Plagiocephaly
    https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/the-long-term-effects-of-plagiocephaly
    A study investigating the development in toddlers with and without deformational plagiocephaly (DP) found that toddlers with DP scored lower on all sections of the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition when compared with unaffected, demographically similar toddlers. […] Practical difficulties in sport and everyday life can affect adults with plagiocephaly, as some are unable to wear many types of protective headwear for sports such as cycling and rock climbing. […] Flat head in adults and children may have a psychological impact later in life. A misshapen head brings a number of psychosocial concerns and emotional difficulties which a person may face throughout school and into adulthood. […] Adults who are conscious of their head shape are unable to wear certain hairstyles if they wish to conceal plagiocephaly as an adult. This is particularly difficult for men with plagiocephaly as shorter, cropped styles will highlight a misshapen head even more. Low self-esteem and a lack of confidence in appearance can have a significant impact on their ability to socialise. […] Unfortunately though, moderate and severe plagiocephaly will not correct with repositioning and sometimes won’t even be improved at all, instead requiring other forms of plagiocephaly treatment, such as the TiMband.
  • #52 Why Does My Baby Have a Flat Head?
    https://www.sydneypelvicclinic.com.au/why-does-my-baby-have-a-flat-head/
    Plagiocephaly is a term used to describe a babys flat or misshapen head shape, which may also include the ears and face. It does not affect the development of the babys brain, but if it is not treated it may affect a babys physical appearance by causing uneven growth of their face and head. […] The most common form is positional plagiocephaly. It occurs when a babys head develops a flat spot due to pressure on that area. Babies are more vulnerable because their skull is soft and pliable when theyre born. […] Positional plagiocephaly typically develops after birth when babies spend time in a position that puts pressure on one part of the skull. […] Many vaginally delivered babies are born with an oddly shaped head caused by the pressure of passing through the birth canal. This usually corrects itself within about six weeks. If your babys head hasnt rounded out by six weeks or you notice the following; A flat area on your babys head. This is usually on one side and or the back of the head. A head preference to one side may develop. One side of the forehead is further forward than the other. One ear is further forward than the other.
  • #53 Plagiocephaly vs Brachycephaly | The Key Differences
    https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/key-differences-plagiocephaly-brachycephaly
    If any improvement can be achieved naturally, it will be during the first few weeks of life, usually up until around four months of age. […] Our experience is that if the plagiocephaly and brachycephaly are not improving on its own by five months of age, it probably wont improve at all without further assistance.
  • #54 Plagiocephaly and brachycephaly – misshapen head
    https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Plagiocephaly_and_brachycephaly_-_misshapen_head/
    Most babies with a misshapen head do not need any treatment especially if they are active and have plenty of one-on-one interaction. Plagiocephaly and brachycephaly usually improve as your baby grows and starts to move their head by themselves. […] A very small number of babies with plagiocephaly and brachycephaly have a severe and persistent deformity and may need helmet therapy. […] Plagiocephaly will often correct itself with the above positioning and play advice as your baby grows. A very small number of babies will need helmet therapy to correct a severe and persistent misshapen head. […] A mishappen head is not painful for babies and should not impact their ability to play and develop.