What is Flat Head Syndrome?

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Flat head syndrome is a condition where an infant’s head becomes flattened on one side or at the back. This occurs when consistent pressure is applied to a specific area of the skull, often due to prolonged time spent lying in the same position. Since a baby’s skull grows in the direction of least resistance, this can result in visible flattening. The most common types of flat head syndrome are:

• Plagiocephaly: Flattening on one side of the head.

• Brachycephaly: Flattening across the back of the head, making it appear wider than usual.

While this is primarily a cosmetic condition, addressing it early is essential to support your baby’s overall development and prevent long-term cosmetic concerns. To measure whether a flat head is present, the Cranial Vault Asymmetry Index (CVAI) for plagiocephaly and the Cephalic Index (CI) for brachycephaly are internationally recognized standard methods.

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How Do Baby Helmets Work?

 

Baby helmets, or cranial orthoses, are custom-fitted devices designed to gently reshape your baby’s head as they grow. These helmets work by applying mild pressure to the flat areas of the skull while leaving room for growth in other areas.

• Ideal Timing: Helmet therapy typically begins between 4 to 6 months of age when the skull is still growing.

• Duration: Helmets are usually worn for 23 hours a day over several months, depending on the severity of the flattening and the baby’s age at the start of treatment.

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Can Flat Head Syndrome Be Prevented Without a Helmet?

The great news is that in many cases, flat head syndrome can be prevented or significantly minimized through natural, simple techniques. Up until the end of the first year, the rapid growth of the skull slows down, and any shape corrections become more difficult. Therefore, the first 12 months are crucial for correction. 

 

Here are some effective prevention strategies:

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1. Tummy Time

Encourage your baby to spend supervised time on their tummy while awake. This helps strengthen neck and shoulder muscles while reducing pressure on the back of the head.

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2. Alternate Sleeping Positions

Place your baby’s head in different directions when putting them down to sleep. When your baby becomes more active, stimulate head movement by attaching their favorite toy to different sides of the crib. Always follow safe sleep guidelines by placing your baby on their back to sleep.

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3. Rotate the Cradle

Babies often look toward sources of light or their caregivers. If your baby has a preferred sleeping position, turn their cradle so they are encouraged to look in the opposite direction, promoting balanced head positioning.

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4. Change Feeding and Holding Positions

Alternate the arm you use to hold your baby during feedings, and ensure they are not always resting on the same side of their head. This reduces repeated pressure on one area of the skull.

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5. Seek Professional Help

Consult a pediatric physiotherapist or osteopath if natural methods are not effective. These professionals specialize in repositioning therapy, a proven and effective treatment method. Typically, treatment involves about five sessions, and some insurance plans may cover the costs.

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When is a Baby Helmet Necessary?

In some cases, despite your best efforts, flat head syndrome may not improve naturally. Helmet therapy might be recommended if:

• The flattening is severe: CVAI of 11% or higher or CI of 100% or higher at the age of 4 months or older, especially if the baby hasn’t started rolling over or isn’t expected to soon.

• There’s no improvement after trying natural methods for several weeks.

• Your baby is diagnosed with torticollis, a condition that limits neck movement.

A pediatrician or specialist can assess your baby’s head shape and provide personalized recommendations.

 

Pros and Cons of Baby Helmets for Flat Head

Pros:

• Effective in reshaping the head when started early.

• Can address severe cases where natural methods fall short.

Cons:

• Helmets can be costly, often not covered by insurance, and typically range between $2,000 and $4,000.

• Wearing a helmet for 23 hours a day can be uncomfortable for some babies.

• Requires regular adjustments by a specialist to ensure proper fit.

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Skully Care: Supporting You Every Step of the Way

At Skully Care, we understand the concerns parents have about flat head syndrome and helmet therapy. That’s why we offer practical advice, resources, and tools to help you make informed decisions about your baby’s care. Whether you’re exploring natural prevention methods or considering a helmet, our mission is to empower you with the knowledge and support you need.

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Explore Our Services:

• Guidance on tummy time and positioning.

• Tools to track your baby’s head shape development.

• Access to professional consultations.

 

Conclusion

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Flat head syndrome can feel overwhelming, but with the right information and support, you can take proactive steps to ensure your baby’s healthy development. Whether you’re exploring natural solutions or considering a baby helmet, the most important thing is to act early and consult with trusted professionals. Skully Care is here to guide you every step of the way.

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