5 Signs Your Baby May Be Developing Plagiocephaly: What Every Parent Needs to Know

As a new parent, you're likely hyper-aware of every aspect of your baby's development. Among the myriad of conditions to watch out for, plagiocephaly - commonly known as "flat head syndrome" - is one that often flies under the radar. Yet, it affects up to 48% of babies, making it a crucial issue for parents to understand [2].

What is Plagiocephaly?

Plagiocephaly occurs when a baby's soft, pliable skull develops a flattened or asymmetrical shape. This condition typically results from external pressures on the skull, often due to prolonged periods in one position [1]. While it's primarily a cosmetic issue, severe cases can potentially lead to developmental concerns if left untreated [1].

Let's explore five key signs that your baby might be developing plagiocephaly:

1. A Flat Spot on the Head

The most obvious sign of plagiocephaly is a flat area on the back or side of your baby's head. This flattening can range from mild to severe and may be more noticeable when your baby's hair is wet [4]. Remember, not all flat spots indicate plagiocephaly - many babies develop temporary flat areas that resolve on their own as they grow and become more mobile [4].

2. Misaligned Ears

Plagiocephaly can cause a misalignment of your baby's ears. If you notice that one ear appears to be pushed forward more than the other, it could be a sign of an asymmetric head shape caused by plagiocephaly [4].

3. Facial Asymmetry

In some cases, plagiocephaly can lead to noticeable differences in facial symmetry. This might manifest as:

- Uneven cheek fullness

- One eye appearing larger than the other

- A bulging forehead on one side [1][4]

These facial changes occur because the skull's shape influences the positioning of facial features.

4. Difficulty Turning the Head

If your baby consistently has trouble turning their head in a particular direction or seems to prefer keeping their head in one position, it could be an early sign of plagiocephaly [4]. This difficulty might be related to a condition called torticollis, which can contribute to the development of plagiocephaly [3].

5. Bald Spots or Uneven Hair Growth

While not a direct symptom of plagiocephaly, the presence of bald spots or uneven hair growth can indicate that your baby is spending too much time in one position, which can lead to plagiocephaly [4].

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to discuss them with your pediatrician. While mild cases of plagiocephaly often resolve with simple repositioning techniques, more severe cases might require interventions such as physical therapy or helmet therapy [1][2].

Prevention and Management

Prevention is always preferable to treatment. Here are some strategies to help prevent plagiocephaly:

- Encourage regular tummy time during waking hours

- Alternate your baby's head position during sleep

- Limit time in car seats, swings, and bouncy seats when not traveling [1][2]

If your baby has been diagnosed with plagiocephaly, following your healthcare provider's treatment plan and maintaining regular follow-ups is crucial for the best outcome.

Conclusion

Understanding the signs of plagiocephaly empowers you to take proactive steps in your baby's care. Remember, while plagiocephaly is common, it's also highly treatable, especially when caught early. By staying informed and vigilant, you're ensuring the best possible start for your little one. If you or a loved one are concerned about Flat Head Syndrome or Plagiocephaly with your infant learn how the Infant Support Device can reduce pressure and support your baby to help prevent Flat Head Syndrome or supplement your current care routine here.  

Always consult with your pediatrician if you have concerns about your baby's development. With proper care and attention, most babies with plagiocephaly make a full recovery, allowing you to focus on the joys of watching your little one grow and thrive.

Thank you for tuning in.

Citations:

[1] https://www.childrensnational.org/get-care/health-library/plagiocephaly

[2] https://familydoctor.org/condition/plagiocephaly/

[3] https://raisingchildren.net.au/newborns/health-daily-care/health-concerns/plagiocephaly

[4] https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/flat-head-baby

[5] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10691-plagiocephaly-flat-head-syndrome

[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7206465/

[7] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/deformational-plagiocephaly

[8] https://www.seattlechildrens.org/conditions/positional-plagiocephaly/

[9] https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/plagiocephaly

[10] https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/positional-plagiocephaly.html

[11] https://www.choa.org/parent-resources/orthopedics/how-to-prevent-a-flat-head