plagiocelhaly (flat head)

[nancy1]

Hi,

ok, my previous message did not go through, I think, so I'll try again.

My son has pagiocephaly (flat head) caused by a mild torticolitis (neck stiffness on one side) and by his position in my womb.
Actually, more than a flat head, there is asymmetry.

One ped gave neck exercises, recommended as much tummy time as possible and said it would just resolve on its own. The other recommended the same thing but said he might need a helmet to correct the asymmetry.

We have been doing the exercises and the tummy times, and while there is some improvements, there is still quite a bit that needs to be corrected.

He is now 3.5 months old.

I would love to hear from parents who have had similar experiences and what the peds have recomnended.
Thanks,
Nancy

[kellym]

Hi Nancy,

My babies didn't have flat head but we were in a play group in which one child did. She was monitored until about 6 months old and then she was put in a helmut. Before the helmut, the parents were given exercises (as you were) and told much the same thing - lots of tummy time, minimal time in car seats, prop the baby on its side when sleeping if possible. Like you there was some improvement but not enough so that is why they then turned to the helmut. They thought she'd have to wear it for 6 months, but she was mostly out of it in 4 since it worked quite well. Her head is completely normal now. The reason they waited to put her in a helmet was because of neck strength - I think they wanted to make sure she could hold her head up with the helmet.

Best of luck! I am sure it is worrisome but based on what I saw my friend go through, it sounds like you are on the same track.
Kelly

[nancy1]

Hi Kelly,

I appreciate the feedback!
Nancy

[Cocoa]

You should try chiropractics as well. When my son - whose head was asymmetrical - had his first adjustment I saw immediate improvement. He is 22 months old now with a perfect head

xxCocoa

[riogirl71]

Nancy, did you see my reply on the other board on same post?