Plagiocephaly

Has your child been diagnosed with plagiocephaly or another cranial anomaly? Below you’ll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions from patients and parents, answered by our skilled clinicians. If you have a question not answered here, feel free to call customer service at 800.262.2235 or email them at customerservice@bostonoandp.com.

What is plagiocephaly?

Positional Deformational Plagiocephaly (pronounced Play-gee-oh-sef-ali), also called “Flat Head,” is a cranial deformation that occurs in babies. Learn more.

What causes plagiocephaly?

Cranial asymmetries can be caused by a number of factors that can occur before, during and after birth. Learn more.

How is plagiocephaly detected?

Starting at 3 months of age, as part of a well-child exam your child’s pediatrician will measure your child’s head and check for cranial symmetry. If there is an asymmetry of 8mm or more, your child needs to be examined by a certified orthotist, who will offer treatment options and track progress.

How is plagiocephaly treated?

Plagiocephaly can be treated with repositioning techniques, sleep cradling, tummy time, the Perfect Noggin infant sleep surface, or a corrective helmet such as the Boston Band. Learn more.

If my baby has been diagnosed with plagiocephaly, are there any concerns if we don't move forward with treatment?

There is no clear evidence that head shape asymmetry directly affects development, although there are studies that have shown links between head shape asymmetry and developmental delays. More practical concerns are how well helmets and hats will fit; this is usually an issue for heads with more substantial asymmetries.

Will my baby’s head round out on its own?

Repositioning, tummy time and using the Perfect Noggin sleep surface are recommended prior to 4 months, depending on sleeping preference and level of asymmetry. Conservative methods can be effective at improving asymmetry while the head is still growing very fast and the baby is still sleeping in a fairly still position. For these reasons, we utilize the CHOA Plagiocephaly scale and the Hutchinson Brachycephaly scale, which recommend conservative treatment whenever possible.

What is the Perfect Noggin?

The Perfect Noggin is a contoured sleeping surface for infants under 4 months that encourages symmetrical head growth. In some cases, patients who use the Perfect Noggin can avoid having to wear a helmet.

My child hates Tummy Time, any advice?

Instead of having your baby completely flat for Tummy Time, use a pillow or some other form of wedge to prop your baby up on an angle. The resistance from gravity is not as strong, and Tummy Time is usually tolerated better in this position. If there is still an issue, simply remove the Boston Band for any extended periods of Tummy Time.