Supporting Infant Head Shape and Easing Parental Concerns: How the Infant Support Device reduces and prevents Plagiocephaly; Flat Head Syndrome

Supporting Infant Head Shape and Easing Parental Concerns: How the Infant Support Device reduces and prevents Plagiocephaly; Flat Head Syndrome 

As parents, ensuring the safety and well-being of our little ones is a top priority. Among the various concerns that can arise during infancy, positional plagiocephaly—a condition more commonly known as "flat head syndrome"—is a prevalent issue. Affecting up to 38% of full-term infants and an alarming 85% of preterm infants, positional plagiocephaly occurs when one side of an infant's head becomes flattened due to prolonged external pressure. This condition often develops within the first few months of life when an infant's skull is still malleable and can be easily shaped by external forces.

While the condition is often managed through repositioning techniques or more invasive treatments like helmet therapy, a new solution has emerged that offers a more effective and less intrusive alternative: The Infant Support Device. This innovative device is designed to prevent and treat positional plagiocephaly, providing peace of mind for parents and support for their infants' developing heads.

How Positional Plagiocephaly Develops

Positional plagiocephaly typically results from a combination of factors, including the infant's position during sleep and the pliability of the skull. During birth, an infant's skull is subject to various forces that can lead to temporary deformities. These initial deformities can worsen if an infant consistently rests in the same position, as the pressure on one part of the head can cause the skull to flatten.

Traditional methods of managing positional plagiocephaly include repositioning the infant's head during sleep and increasing tummy time to reduce pressure on the affected area. However, these methods can be time-consuming and difficult for parents to consistently implement. In more severe cases, helmet therapy may be recommended, which involves the infant wearing a custom-fitted helmet for up to 23 hours a day. While effective, helmet therapy is costly, uncomfortable, and can cause skin irritation and other side effects.

The Infant Support Device: A Breakthrough in Plagiocephaly Treatment

The Infant Support Device offers a groundbreaking alternative to existing treatments for positional plagiocephaly. The device is designed to reduce the pressure exerted on an infant's skull while lying in the supine position (on their back), which is the most common position for sleep. Studies have shown that the device reduces pressure by at least 38% compared to a standard crib mattress, and by 43% at critical points of contact, significantly lowering the risk of skull deformation.

Key Features and Benefits

  • Immediate Pressure Relief: Unlike other treatments that require time to see results, the Infant Support Device provides immediate pressure relief, allowing the infant's head to develop naturally without the constant pressure that leads to deformity.
  • Preventative and Therapeutic: The device is not only effective in treating existing cases of plagiocephaly but also serves as a preventative measure. By reducing pressure on the infant's head from birth, the device helps prevent the development of flat spots before they become noticeable.
  • Ease of Use: The device is designed for daily use under adult supervision and is suitable for infants up to 12 months of age or 22 pounds. It is lightweight, easy to store, and can be used with existing cribs or as a standalone support.
  • Cost-Effective: At a retail price of under $200, the Infant Support Device is a more affordable alternative to helmet therapy and other treatments, which can cost thousands of dollars and require frequent follow-up visits.
  • Comfort and Convenience: The device is made from durable materials that provide gentle, consistent support while maintaining airflow to prevent overheating. Its design allows caregivers to perform other tasks while ensuring their infant is safe and comfortable.

Supporting Parents and Infants Alike

The Infant Support Device not only benefits infants by preventing and treating positional plagiocephaly but also offers significant advantages for parents. The device is easy to use, cost-effective, and provides a practical solution that does not require constant supervision or follow-up appointments. For working parents, single parents, or those with multiple children, the device offers a manageable way to support their infant's healthy development without sacrificing time or resources.

Conclusion

Positional plagiocephaly is a common and concerning condition that can have long-lasting effects on an infant's appearance and development. The Infant Support Device offers a promising solution that addresses both prevention and treatment in a way that is accessible, affordable, and effective. By reducing pressure on the infant's skull, this innovative device supports healthy head shape development, giving parents peace of mind and helping their little ones thrive.

Thank you for tuning in. If you or a loved one are concerned about Flat Head Syndrome or Plagiocephaly with your infant, the Infant Support Device reduces pressure to support your baby and can help prevent Flat Head Syndrome; or supplement your current care routine. 

Learn more and contact our team with any questions here.

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