#Don'tHeadsitate
Early Detection
Flat spots are common, check early and often.
How early intervention helps
Helps prevention
Preventative measures are much more effective when started at an early age so helmeting is not required.
Reduce time to treat
Early intervention may shorten treatment time when done during period of rapid head growth (4-6 months of age).
Improves outcomes
Early intervention may improve outcomes during a period of rapid head growth (4-6 months of age).
Ways to detect, prevent, and treat flat spots in infants
Know what to look for and contributing risk factors
Know what to look for and contributing risk factors
Flat spots can be caused by many different things — the important thing is that you're doing something about it.
Getting a clinical head shape evaluation
Getting a clinical head shape evaluation
We offer no cost evaluations so you can record a baseline image of your baby's head shape to track if repositioning techniques (tummy time, etc.) are working. You can schedule at over 100 clinic locations nationwide.
5 ways check your baby's head shape at home
5 ways check your baby's head shape at home
At a very young age, your baby's head is very soft and flat spots can form in as little as one week. Use these tips to know what to look for and add head shape checks into your weekly routine with your little one.
Tips to prevent flat spots and treat mild cases
Tips to prevent flat spots and treat mild cases
Outside of natural causes, flat spots usually occur because a baby spends long periods of time on their backs or positioning devices. Techniques like head repositioning and tummy time are great tools to help treat mild flat spots or preventing them altogether.
Treatment protocol must be individualized and based on age and severity for each child. A child with a more severe asymmetry must be considered earlier for helmet therapy than someone with more moderate misshaping.”
— Frank Vicari, MD, FACS, FAAP
FAQ
- Will my baby’s head “round out” on its own?
- Isn’t plagiocephaly just cosmetic?
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No. While most parents have appearance-related concerns, that’s not the main reason to consider treatment. It is considered restorative, as we are working to return the head back to it’s natural shape.
- Does plagiocephaly affect my baby's brain development?
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Plagiocephaly is not known to have any lasting harmful effects on your baby’s neurological development. However, if left untreated it is possible the head will remain misshapen into adulthood.
- Is plagiocephaly preventable?
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Simple at-home practices including supervised tummy time and repositioning techniques are known to prevent and improve abnormal head shapes up until about four months of age. Additionally, limiting the use of convenience devices, such as car seats, infant carriers and swings, is also recommended.
- How do I know if my baby needs helmet therapy?
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No two cases of plagiocephaly are alike and it's always best to consult a trained professional.
We're proud to offer head shape evaluations at no cost to you and zero commitment required. To get started, you can schedule online.