Cranial Plagiocephaly
You may have been slightly startled to notice your baby’s head developing an unusual shape. The condition is not uncommon; it’s called plagiocephaly (pla’je-o-sef’ah-le) and often results from external forces applied to the soft infant skull resulting in the flattening of one side of the head.
What we treat
Orthotic treatment options for Plagiocephaly/ Brachycephaly include casting or scanning the head to make a custom-made corrective helmet. This will require periodic adjustment as the cranial shape develops and is corrected.
What is Plagiocephaly?
Plagiocephaly means “oblique head” (from Greek: plagio = oblique, and cephale = head). It’s called a parallelogram deformity because if you look down on the infant’s head (bird’s-eye-view), this is the shape you will see. From this angle, it seems as if half of the head has been pushed forward, often accompanied by misalignment of the ears, facial asymmetry and bulging forehead.
Use of Helmeting
Helmets are made of a hard outer shell with a foam lining. Gentle, persistent pressures are applied to capture the natural growth of an infant’s head while inhibiting growth in the prominent areas and allowing for growth in the flat regions. As the head grows, adjustments are made frequently. The helmet essentially provides a tight, round space for the head to grow into.
Questions
How long will my child wear a helmet?
The average treatment with a helmet is usually three to six months, depending on the infant’s age and the severity of the condition. Careful and frequent monitoring is required, and a licensed physician with craniofacial experience must prescribe helmets.
HOW MOVE ME HELPS
How we support Cranial Plagiocephaly
Our clinicians fit orthoses and supports matched to your symptoms, activity level and goals.
Book an orthotic consultation- Clinical assessment Gait and function reviewed in clinic
- Orthotic fitting Ready-to-wear or custom devices
- Follow-up care Adjustments as your needs change
- Footwear advice Shoes that work with your supports
- Product options Order replacements when you need them
- Referral support We work with your care team
Treatment areas
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We have a range of orthoses available for Head, Neck and Spine support. Our orthotists and technicians will collaborate to build you the best orthosis to suit your individual needs.
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We support children's orthoses needs with our range of Paediatrics orthoses that can be custom-made or ready-to-wear solutions.