- A common craniofacial problem in infants
- Positional or deformational plagiocephaly suggests an asymmetrical (uneven) head shape presenting as a flattened spot at the back or side of an infant’s head
- Newborns may have an altered head shape at birth due to the position of the baby in the uterus or from the birth itself, particularly if foceps or suction was used for delivery. This should resolve within 6 weeks after the birth.
- The cranial bones of a newborn are thin and flexible so may change shape easily if a baby spends a lot of time on their back with their head in one position.
- Persistent plagiocephaly if not treated may cause uneven growth of their face/head as the bones become fused together with development.
- If significant, referral to a paediatric orthotist for helmet prescription may be warranted. There is lots of strategies that can be implemented to prevent getting to this point if intervention is sought early enough.
