Plagiocephaly
Treatment for deformational plagiocephaly
Specific treatment will be determined by your child's physician based
on the severity of the deformational plagiocephaly. Frequent rotation
of your child's head would be the first recommendation once your infant
has been diagnosed with plagiocephaly. Alternating your infant's sleep
position from the back to the sides, and not putting infants on their
backs when they are awake may also help prevent and treat positional plagiocephaly.
Some cases do not require any treatment and the condition may resolve
spontaneously when the infant begins to sit.
If the deformity is moderate to severe and a trial of re-positioning
has failed, your child's physician may recommend a cranial remodeling
band or helmet.
How does helmeting correct deformational plagiocephaly?
Helmets are usually made of an outer hard shell with a foam lining. Gentle,
persistent pressures are applied to capture the natural growth of an infant's
head, while inhibiting growth in the prominent areas and allowing for
growth in the flat regions. As the head grows, adjustments are made frequently.
The helmet essentially provides a tight, round space for the head to grow
into.
How long will my child wear a helmet?
The average treatment with a helmet is usually three to six months, depending
on the age of the infant and the severity of the condition. Careful and
frequent monitoring is required. Helmets must be prescribed by a licensed
physician with craniofacial experience.