What are the symptoms of plagiocephaly-brachycephaly?
The main signs of plagiocephaly-brachycephaly include:
- A noticeable flat area on one side of the head
- One ear may appear pushed forward
- The forehead may stick out on one side
- The back of the head may be wider than usual
What causes plagiocephaly-brachycephaly?
This condition can be caused by:
- Spending too much time lying on the back
- Being in the same position in the womb
- Issues with the muscles in the neck
How common is plagiocephaly-brachycephaly?
Plagiocephaly-brachycephaly is fairly common. It is estimated that about 1 in every 5 babies may have some form of this condition.
Who is more likely to get plagiocephaly-brachycephaly?
Some babies may be at a higher risk, including:
- Babies who are born prematurely
- Babies who spend a lot of time in car seats or bouncy seats
- Babies with tight neck muscles (a condition called torticollis)
How can I treat plagiocephaly-brachycephaly?
Treatment options may include:
- Changing your baby’s position while sleeping or resting
- Physical therapy to improve neck movement
- Using a special helmet to gently reshape the head
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How to prevent plagiocephaly-brachycephaly?
To help prevent this condition, you can:
- Give your baby supervised tummy time every day
- Change the direction your baby sleeps to encourage head movement
- Avoid leaving your baby in one position for long periods
How to live with plagiocephaly-brachycephaly?
In most cases, plagiocephaly-brachycephaly improves as the child grows and starts to move around more. If there are any concerns, it is important to keep in touch with your healthcare provider.
Final thoughts
If you notice changes in your baby’s head shape, it’s a good idea to speak to your GP or healthcare provider for advice and support.
