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Plagiocephaly and brachycephaly are two common cranial conditions that primarily affect infants. These conditions involve abnormal head shapes and are often linked to the early developmental stages. Understanding the differences between these conditions is crucial for timely intervention and proper treatment.
Plagiocephaly refers to a condition where one side of an infant’s head becomes flattened. This happens when consistent pressure is applied to one area of the skull, often from lying in one position for extended periods. The flattening is typically noticeable on one side of the head, causing asymmetry. In severe cases, it may lead to facial asymmetry, affecting the positioning of the eyes or ears.
One of the most common causes of plagiocephaly is positional cranial deformation. This often occurs when babies spend prolonged periods lying on their backs without being encouraged to change positions. However, some cases of plagiocephaly may be related to physical conditions like torticollis (a stiff neck), which restricts the baby’s ability to turn their head freely.
Brachycephaly is another cranial condition, characterized by a broader flattening of the skull, usually at the back of the head. This causes the head to appear wider, with the frontal region appearing more prominent. Unlike plagiocephaly, which causes asymmetry, brachycephaly results in a more symmetrical but flattened head shape. The skull may appear short or “boxy,” and the flattening is often evenly distributed across the back of the head.
Similar to plagiocephaly, brachycephaly can develop when an infant spends long periods lying on their back, particularly in the early stages of life. This condition may be more common in infants who sleep on their backs for extended periods, which has become the standard recommendation to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Both plagiocephaly and brachycephaly are caused by external pressure on an infant’s soft skull. During the first few months of life, babies’ skulls are still soft and malleable. If the baby stays in one position for too long, the pressure on the skull can lead to flattening.
While these conditions are typically not life-threatening, they can have long-term effects if left untreated. The flattening of the skull may cause aesthetic concerns as the child grows older. In some cases, the condition can also affect the alignment of the jaw, leading to potential feeding issues. In rare instances, severe cases of cranial deformation may affect vision or other sensory systems, which can impact developmental milestones.
However, these conditions are treatable, and early intervention is important in promoting proper skull shape development.
The treatment for plagiocephaly and brachycephaly aims to relieve pressure on the skull and promote proper head shape development. In some cases, parents and caregivers may need to follow a combination of techniques, including physiotherapy, manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and kinesio taping.
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in the treatment of plagiocephaly and brachycephaly, particularly when the conditions are linked to torticollis (tight neck muscles). A physiotherapist can provide targeted exercises to strengthen neck muscles and improve head mobility. These exercises also encourage babies to change head positions frequently to avoid pressure on the same side of the skull.
Repositioning techniques, where the baby is encouraged to lie on different sides, are also an important part of the treatment. This helps alleviate pressure on one area of the skull, promoting a more rounded head shape.
Manual therapy is another effective treatment for babies suffering from restricted neck movement due to torticollis. Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques to release tightness and improve neck flexibility. This helps the baby turn their head more freely, which in turn encourages proper head movement and prevents further skull flattening.
Therapeutic exercises can also be beneficial for babies with plagiocephaly and brachycephaly. These exercises help strengthen the neck and shoulder muscles, improving posture and overall head control. By consistently practicing these exercises, the baby can learn to adjust their head position more effectively, which aids in the correction of head shape.
Kinesio taping is a non-invasive technique used to support the muscles around the neck and head. This elastic tape is applied to encourage proper alignment and posture, reducing the risk of further skull flattening. It can be particularly helpful for babies who experience torticollis, as it provides additional support to improve head position.
If you notice that your baby has a flattened head or appears to favor one side, it’s important to seek professional help early on. Early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome, preventing further cranial deformities and promoting proper skull development.
For more information about managing and treating plagiocephaly or brachycephaly, contact our clinic. Our team is equipped with various physiotherapy techniques to help your child achieve a balanced and healthy head shape.
