There
are many things you can do to keep your child from getting
a flat head. Reducing the amount of time baby
spends laying in the same position is the number one
thing you can do to prevent plagiocephaly. Many
new moms misunderstand that back to sleep does not mean
never put baby on their tummy. Babies can spend
time on their tummies while they are awake and supervised. The
importance of tummy
time is not always stressed to new moms.
The time frame for developing plagiocephaly is usually
when babies are young and not able to move off of their
back on their own.
Babies
should get lots of tummy time when they are awake. Some
babies do not like tummy time. They may get accustomed
to being on their back and prefer it. If you start doing
tummy time right away this will help. Babies may like
to be on their backs more because they can look around easier.
If they haven't developed the physical strength to hold their
head and neck up, they may not like to stay on their tummy.
If your baby does not like tummy time try putting them on
their tummy for short periods of time at first. Lay
on the floor with baby and use toys or singing to distract
them. Each time you do tummy time, work on getting them
to spend more time on their tummy.
Another
contributing factor is babies that spend a lot of time in
car seats, swings or bouncy seats. Babies spend so much
time sleeping when they are young infants that any extra time
with pressure on the back of their heads only adds to the
flattening. Try to avoid putting baby in the car seat
or swing for long periods of time.
Babywearing
may help prevent plagiocephaly. Babywearing is when
you carry baby around in a sling during the day. This
will keep limit how much time baby spends with pressure on
the back of his head. Plus, there are many other benefits
to baby.
Some
babies also develop torticollis, which is a shortening or
tightening of the neck muscle. Baby spending too much
time with his neck turned in one direction can cause it.
To prevent this try to alternate which way baby's head is
turned when you put him to sleep. If he is developing
a preference to tilt his head in one direction try using toys
to get him to turn his head the other direction.
Furthermore,
there are treatments for plagiocephaly and torticollis.
If you notice a flat spot forming on your baby's head
or that he is tilting his head in one direction consult
your doctor for advice. Some methods of treatment
for plagiocephaly and torticollis include neck exercises
to do with baby, physical therapy, and in extreme cases
fitting baby with a helmet.
Helpful
links: www.plagiocephaly.org
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