Positional plagiocephaly, more commonly known as infantile flathead, is a concern for many parents. Some cases of misshapen heads are attributed to the trauma of childbirth, but the flat areas are mainly due to the babies lying on their backs in bed. The bones of a newborn's skull are quite soft, flexible, and are susceptible to pressure. The "Back to sleep" campaign (born in the US, but now also widespread in Italy) encourages sleeping on the back to prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), but has led to an increase in positional plagiocephaly; 1 in every 300 children is affected. Below are some steps you can take to help prevent and treat infant flat head.
Steps
Step 1. Keep the baby raised often, especially in an upright position
The more time spends outside the cradle, seat and infant carrier, the less pressure is placed on the baby's head
Step 2. Place the baby in the prone position, on a solid surface, for short periods during the day
The "Tummy Time" not only prevents flat head, but aids motor development, as well as helping the child to strengthen the neck, arms and shoulder muscles
Step 3. Alternate the position of the baby when it is in the crib
One day put his head to the foot of the bed and the next day reverse the position. This encourages him to look in different directions.
Step 4. Change your arm every time you breastfeed
Step 5. Rearrange the baby's sleeping area from time to time
Try placing the crib in another area of the room to give it a new point of view. This way the child avoids constantly looking in the same direction.
Step 6. Vary your activities throughout the day
Do not leave it in the same position or location for long periods of time. Excessive use of swings, car seats and baby carriers can cause flat spots on the head.
Step 7. Check with your pediatrician to see if the baby develops a flat head or if the ears, eyes or forehead seem uneven to you
Although plagiocephaly is the majority of cases, some head deformities are caused by craniosynostosis, a serious condition that requires surgery.
- If your child is diagnosed with positional plagiocephaly, your doctor may recommend that you take the steps outlined in this article, while waiting to see if the condition improves. Most flat areas round out over time.
- More severe cases may require skull reshaping with a corrective helmet or custom-made bandage.
Warnings
- Use only a pillow that is safe for babies (airflow safe and approved by doctors), avoid memory foam and cotton-like material, as they are potentially choking hazards.
- Never put a baby to sleep on its stomach, even if it has developed a flat head, to avoid the risk of "cot death" (SIDS).
- Prompt intervention is the key to avoiding expensive and painful corrective helmet treatment.
- Do not use sleep positioners not approved by the Ministry of Health; these include mats, wedges and cushions. Always check if the items are safe and authorized by the Safety Commission by checking the official pages.
