What does it mean if a child has a flat head?
What does it mean if a child has a flat head?
What Is Flat Head Syndrome? Flat head syndrome usually happens when a baby sleeps with the head turned to the same side during first months of life. This causes a flat spot, either on one side or the back of the head. Flat head syndrome is also called positional plagiocephaly (pu-ZI-shu-nul play-jee-oh-SEF-uh-lee).
Can flat head cause problems?
In most cases they aren’t a major cause for concern, as they don’t have any effect on the brain and the head shape will often improve by itself over time. Your baby won’t experience any pain or other symptoms, or any problems with their general development.
Should I worry about flat head?
See your GP or child and family health nurse if you’re concerned about your baby’s head shape, or your baby has a: strangely shaped head or a flat spot, which hasn’t gone back to a normal shape by about 2 months of age. strong preference for turning their head to one side. difficulty turning their head.
What happens if flat head isn’t treated?
They can grow out of it naturally or correct it with therapy. It is unlikely to cause issues with their brain growth or function. However, if plagiocephaly is left untreated, children are at risk of developmental, neurological, or psychological difficulties.
Can flat head be corrected?
Self-Correction through Repositioning Providing repositioning therapy is started early enough, mild flat head syndrome can usually be corrected before the bones in the skull harden and become less receptive to repositioning.
Is flat head genetic?
Plagiocephaly is not genetic, and can be caused by: Torticollis, or muscle tightness on one side of the neck, so the baby prefers holding the head to one side or in one position. Prematurity: skull bones are softer than full term babies, and they tend to move their heads less often.
Can flat head be corrected after 2 years?
According to official NHS advice, untreated plagiocephaly will ‘usually improve’ over time, advising parents that, ‘your baby’s head may not return to a completely perfect shape, but by the time they’re one or two years old, any flattening will be barely noticeable’, and, ‘the appearance of your child’s head should …
Is Flat Head genetic?