Plagiocephaly and skull deformations in babies: everything you need to know

The term plagiocephaly can be alarming for parents encountering it for the first time. It refers to a deformation of the skull in babies, which is generally not serious and easy to treat. In this article, we explore the causes of plagiocephaly, the possible treatments, and the time needed to restore a round head shape.

What is plagiocephaly?

Plagiocephaly refers to a medical condition in which a baby's skull becomes misshapen due to constant pressure on a specific part of the head. This deformation can take different forms, such as lateral flattening (positional plagiocephaly) or elongation of the skull (brachycephaly). Mild skull deformations are fairly common in newborns and can often be resolved with a few adjustments to positioning or some physical exercises.

Causes and risk factors

Baby's sleeping position

One of the main causes of plagiocephaly is the baby's sleeping position. Since the 1990s, doctors have recommended placing babies on their backs to sleep in order to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). However, this position can place constant pressure on the back of the baby's head and increase the risk of developing plagiocephaly.

Position in the womb

The position of the baby in the womb during pregnancy can also play a role in the development of plagiocephaly. For example, if the baby is pressed against the wall of the womb or adopts a particular position, this can lead to skull deformation.

Congenital torticollis

Congenital torticollis is a medical condition in which the muscles of a baby's neck are unbalanced, with one being shorter than the other. This leads to asymmetry in the neck and makes it difficult for the baby to turn their head in certain directions. Torticollis thus contributes to plagiocephaly by causing constant pressure on one side of the baby's head.

Detecting plagiocephaly in your baby

Early detection of plagiocephaly is essential in order to put corrective measures in place and maximise the chances of resolution. Parents should pay close attention to the shape of their baby's head and compare it with that of other infants of the same age. If you notice an unusual deformation or flattening, it is crucial to consult your paediatrician.

The different treatment options for plagiocephaly

Treatment for plagiocephaly depends on the severity of the case and the age of the baby. The following options may be considered:

Repositioning during sleep

The first step involves adjusting your baby's sleeping position by placing a roll or a towel under their neck to distribute pressure on the head more evenly. You can also try regularly alternating the direction your baby faces in their cot, so that they do not always sleep on the same side. However, be sure to follow the recommendations regarding back sleeping.

Muscle-strengthening exercises

In cases where your baby is affected by congenital torticollis, neck muscle-strengthening exercises can help correct the imbalance and promote better head alignment. A physiotherapist will be able to guide you through exercises appropriate for your child's age.

Cranial orthoses

For more severe cases of plagiocephaly, your paediatrician may recommend a cranial orthosis (also known as a helmet). This is a medical device worn on your baby's head to encourage normal skull growth. Cranial orthoses are prescribed based on the child's age and the severity of the case.

How long does it take to achieve a round head shape?

The time required for improvement varies depending on the type and severity of the plagiocephaly, as well as the corrective measures put in place. In most cases, between 3 and 6 months of treatment are needed to see a marked improvement. However, there are situations where the skull deformation resolves more quickly or more slowly.

Factors influencing recovery

The baby's age: the younger the baby is when treatment begins, the higher the chances of success. This is because the skull is more malleable at an early age and more likely to change shape.

The severity of the deformation: mild cases of plagiocephaly tend to resolve more quickly than severe cases.

The parents' consistency: the regularity of repositioning, physical exercises, and wearing the cranial orthosis (if needed) directly affects the duration of treatment and its effectiveness.

In short, plagiocephaly is a common and generally non-serious condition in newborns. Early diagnosis, combined with medical follow-up and the swift introduction of corrective measures, maximises the chances of a return to normal within a few months. Nevertheless, it is important to discuss with your paediatrician to determine the best treatment plan for your child.