What is Deformational Plagiocephaly

Deformational Plagiocephaly, also known as “Flathead Syndrome” is a condition characterised by a flattening on one side of the back of the head. It may also involve bulging of the forehead, fullness of the cheek and ear misalignment on the same side as the flattening.

Under the broad term “Flathead Syndrome” there are two other head shapes: Brachycephaly and Dolichocephaly also sometimes known as Scaphocephaly. In Brachycephaly the head is wide in relation to its length and appears flat at the back. The head may have a high “peaked” appearance, and sometimes both sides of the forehead can be bulged. Dolichocephaly is when the head is narrow in relation to length (front to back).

What Causes Flat Head Syndrome?

Deformational Plagiocephaly can be caused by a number of factors involving positioning such as extended time spent in a neonatal unit, the birth process, position in the womb and often the infant's preferred sleeping position. It can also be caused by a condition called Torticollis.

Normally any asymmetry settles in the first few weeks after birth. However, because the baby’s skull is still malleable and can be moulded by external forces any existing flattening may not necessarily disappear of its own accord.

What is Torticollis?

Torticollis is a condition in which a tight or shortened muscle in one side of the neck causes the head to tilt or turn to one side, resulting in the infant resting its head in the same position. It is important to have suspected Torticollis diagnosed and to have it treated by a specialist physiotherapist or cranial osteopath. LOC clinicians can advise you on this.

Back to Sleep

Although the “Back to Sleep” campaign has been linked to the increased incidence of Deformational Plagiocephaly, (for more information see the Diagnosis and Management of Positional Head Deformity it has saved lives by reducing the incidence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), (more information can be found on the Parent's Centre website)

Therefore babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep.

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