Plagiocephaly in Infants: Causes, Consequences, and the Benefits of Osteopathy

Plagiocephaly, commonly referred to as “flat head syndrome,” is a common condition in infants, characterized by an uneven flattening of the head. Although often benign, if not addressed early, it can have lasting effects on a child’s development. Fortunately, osteopathy is a gentle and effective approach that has been shown to help correct cranial deformities and promote healthy growth. This article will explore the causes and consequences of plagiocephaly and discuss how osteopathy can be an effective solution.

 

Understanding Plagiocephaly

Plagiocephaly is a cranial asymmetry that typically appears during the first few months of life when the baby’s skull is still soft and malleable. The most common type is positional plagiocephaly, which occurs when the baby consistently rests their head in the same position for extended periods. Less commonly, congenital plagiocephaly is caused by factors such as restricted space in the womb or muscular issues like torticollis.

 

Common Causes of Plagiocephaly

There are several contributing factors that can lead to the development of plagiocephaly in infants, including:

1. Prolonged Supine Sleeping Position: Since the “Back to Sleep” campaign, which recommends placing babies on their backs to prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), there has been an increase in positional plagiocephaly. Prolonged pressure on one part of the head can result in flattening.
2. Congenital Torticollis: Babies with congenital torticollis have tightened neck muscles, making it difficult to turn their heads. This often results in them favoring one side, which can lead to skull asymmetry.
3. Complicated or Prolonged Births: Difficult deliveries or the use of tools like forceps can exert excessive pressure on the infant’s head, leading to deformities.
4. Limited Space in the Womb: In cases of multiple pregnancies or low amniotic fluid, the baby may have limited space to move in the womb, causing the head to develop in an asymmetrical shape even before birth.

 

Consequences of Plagiocephaly

While many cases of plagiocephaly are mild and may resolve on their own, untreated or more severe cases can result in long-term issues. Some of the consequences include:

1. Aesthetic Concerns: Cranial asymmetry may persist into childhood and adulthood, leading to noticeable differences in head shape and facial structure.
2. Delayed Motor Development: Infants with significant cranial asymmetry may experience delays in achieving motor milestones, such as rolling, sitting, and crawling.
3. Jaw and Bite Misalignment: Plagiocephaly can lead to misalignment of the jaw, which can affect chewing and may require orthodontic treatment in the future.
4. Postural Imbalances: As the baby grows, the asymmetry in the skull may result in postural imbalances, affecting overall movement and coordination.

 

How Osteopathy Can Help with Plagiocephaly

Osteopathy offers a non-invasive, gentle approach to treating plagiocephaly, particularly in the early stages of the condition. Using specific hands-on techniques, an osteopath can work to restore balance and movement in the baby’s skull, neck, and spine.

Here’s how osteopathy can benefit infants with plagiocephaly:

1. Cranial Rebalancing: Osteopaths use gentle cranial techniques to relieve tension and improve the symmetry of the baby’s head. These manipulations encourage the natural reshaping of the skull.
2. Improved Neck Mobility: For infants with torticollis, osteopathy can help release the tightness in the neck muscles, enabling the baby to turn their head more freely, reducing pressure on the flattened area.
3. Overall Body Assessment: Osteopaths look at the body as a whole, ensuring that other parts of the body, such as the spine and pelvis, are not affected by the cranial imbalance.
4. Supporting Natural Development: Osteopathy encourages the body’s natural healing mechanisms by ensuring the baby’s body is properly aligned, promoting optimal motor development and growth.

 

Scientific Support for Osteopathy in Treating Plagiocephaly

Research supports the efficacy of osteopathic treatment in managing plagiocephaly. A study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies in 2021 found that osteopathic treatment, combined with repositioning techniques, significantly improved cranial asymmetry in infants. The findings suggest that early intervention with osteopathy can help prevent more severe deformities and contribute to the baby’s overall well-being.

 

The Expertise of URGENT-OSTEO in Montreal

At URGENT-OSTEO,  we specialize in providing osteopathic care for infants with plagiocephaly. Our team of experienced osteopaths takes a personalized approach to treating each baby, using gentle techniques that are both safe and effective. With a deep understanding of infant physiology and cranial development, we offer a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your baby’s needs.

 

Conclusion

Plagiocephaly is a common condition in infants, but it can have long-term consequences if not addressed. Osteopathy offers a gentle and effective way to correct cranial asymmetry and promote healthy growth and development. At URGENT-OSTEO we have extensive experience in treating plagiocephaly and helping families navigate this condition. If you are concerned about your baby’s head shape, contact us today to schedule a consultation at 514-715-5108 or our website, with one of our experienced osteopaths.

By addressing plagiocephaly early with osteopathy, you can give your child the best chance for healthy, balanced development.