My son is six weeks and we've noticed a flat spot on the right side of his head. We started feeding him on the opposite side and switched his position when sleeping. We've also increased tummy time to help strengthen his neck. Is there anything else we should be doing? Is it too late to correct his head shape? Any additional information would be greatly appreciated!!
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I wrote a blog post on the subject. You should check with your pediatrician and ask for a PT referral as well.
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Definitely show it to the pediatrician. if necessary they will recommend the helmet that corrects this, although I know its a bit expensive. Somtimes flat spots can correct themselves from what i've been told
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@Mrs. Jacks: I called the pediatrician about scheduling an appointment before we go in for his 2 month checkup and she didn't think it was necessary. Should I have pressed the issue?
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Maybe they can have you do a PT referral now. They can show you stretching exercises and stuff that may help avoid it... having said that, 2 weeks won't make a big difference. We waited until our 2 month.
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We dealt with plagiocephaly with our son. Don't worry about making an extra appointment; just point it out at your next regularly scheduled appointment and your doctor will deal with it then. Most babies will self-correct by the age of 6 months, but depending on the severity, your doctor may have you take him to physical therapy.
Besides switching which side you feed him and laying him down on different sides of his crib, you can also limit how much time he spends in bouncers, swings, carseats, etc... Also, try to hold him upright more, rather than cradling him in your arms while he's awake.
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It’s great that you are taking notice and addressing these concerns so early! It’s not at all too late to make the necessary corrections at this young age!
The best way to prevent/correct flat head syndrome is to keep infants off the back of their heads as much as possible, including time spent in strollers, bouncers, carseats, etc. and to periodically change the position of their head and neck so they don’t begin to favor a certain side. Repositioning the head throughout the day and keeping the infant off the flat spot will allow the head to quickly remodel and can help reduce the risk of the infant developing flat head syndrome. Good for you for noticing this and taking charge!
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6 comments