What is Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly)?
Flat Head Syndrome in babies, known as Plagiocephaly, is a condition where the back or side of baby’s head becomes flat or mis-shapen due to prolonged pressure on the skull from flat surfaces like cot mattresses, bassinets or floors, while baby is asleep, or on their back.
A newborn’s skull is very soft, so it’s more likely to occur in very young babies up to 4 months, but can affect children up to 12 months.
Plagiocephaly can also occur during birth, when the baby’s head comes under pressure from the birth canal. It is more common in multiple births, due to lack of space, and premature babies, as their skulls are very soft and they spend more time lying down.
How do I know if my baby has Plagiocephaly?
Your baby’s head may have a flat spot, or be lopsided or mis-shapen.
How will Flat Head affect my baby?
Plagiocephaly was originally thought not to affect babies, however recent studies from the Seattle Children’s Research Institute suggest that it may be a ‘red flag’ for developmental delays. Dr. Matthew Speltz, clinical psychologist, noted in his study of babies with Plagiocephaly that approximately 25% of babies with Flat Head Syndrome displayed motor or movement skill delays when compared to babies without the syndrome.
What should I do about my baby’s head shape?
Check with your pediatrician or health care worker about your baby’s head shape if you are concerned. If the problem is severe and your baby is over 4 months, your baby may have to be fitted for a corrective helmet or band to reshape their head.
Can Flat Head Syndrome be prevented?
Flat Head Syndrome can be prevented and corrected in babies up to 4 months by the use of the Baby –Head-Rest™. The Baby-Head-Rest allows the baby to still sleep on its back, as recommended by SIDS, while gently holding the head in place and provides support against the cot mattress, preventing flattening. You can also use Baby-Head-Rest to correct cases of Flat Head, as well. Prevention is much easier on your baby and less expensive than helmet treatment.
Is the Baby-Head-Rest™ a pillow?
The Baby-Head-Rest is not a pillow, but a head support that gently cradles baby’s head while sleeping. It does not restrict baby’s head movement in any way.
For more information or to find out where to purchase the Baby Head Rest, visit www.babyheadrest.com
