Abnormal Head Shape/Plagiocephaly in McKinney, TX

Plagiocephaly is a condition that results in abnormal head shape when a baby is repeatedly positioned on a specific area of the skull. Here at the International Craniofacial Institute, our Head Shape/Plagiocephaly Clinic reaches out to parents in the McKinney, TX area whose children are suffering from this condition. With years of experience, our highly-trained staff knows what babies are facing and how to effectively treat this condition.

What is Abnormal Head Shape?

Abnormal head shape or plagiocephaly can occur for several reasons. The most common ones are listed below:

• In-Utero: Babies heads can begin to form abnormally within the mother’s womb when singletons or multiples are left in the same position for long periods of time.
• Prematurely: When a baby is born prematurely the bones of the cranium are softer and more easily changed. When a premature baby is left in the same position for long periods of time, these soft bones can become morphed into an abnormal shape.
• Torticollis or Sternocleidomastoid Imbalance: Sometimes neck abnormalities can cause a baby to station their head in a specific position and cause deformities. These neck issues can often be noticed by a tilting of the head to one side.
• Not enough tummy time: Although the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies should sleep on their back, parents must realize that babies also need significant “tummy time” during their first months so that their heads can normally develop.
• Too much time in a baby device: While infant carriers, bouncy seats and swings are wonderful tools to keep babies entertained, too much time in them can ultimately cause head abnormalities to develop.

Early Intervention

If caught early, deformational plagiocephaly can be treated without the use of devices, such as helmets. During infancy and the first year, a baby’s bones are still pliable and will respond to less-drastic measures. Since a baby’s head will continue to round out, this is an opportune time to start implementing treatment, such as “tummy time” and neck stretches.

When you first notice your baby’s head tilting or abnormalities, such as a wide head shape or a shape that is narrow and long, it is time to contact us at the International Craniofacial Institute. We will immediately begin to work with you and your baby, resolving problems and helping the child develop a normally-shaped head for the rest of their life. Contact us today.