Head Shape Concerns and Turn Preferences in Babies
Are you concerned about your child's head shape or their tendency to look in one direction more than the other? While it's common for newborns to display a preference for turning their heads, it's crucial to understand that this preference, known as a "turn preference," may not be entirely normal. Many factors contribute to head shape concerns, and addressing them early is vital for your baby's well-being.
Defining the Terms: Torticollis and Plagiocephaly
Torticollis, characterized by a tight or shortened sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle, results in a tilted and turned neck. Although birth trauma, positioning, vision issues, viral infections, injuries, or vigorous movements can cause torticollis, it's essential to recognize that this condition often involves the entire body, not just the neck.
Next, we have plagiocephaly, which is one of three primary cranial shapes. Plagiocephaly indicates one-sided flattening, while brachycephaly denotes flattening at the back of the head, and scaphocephaly indicates a long, narrow head shape.
Understanding the Impact of Safe Sleep Practices
The introduction of the "Back to Sleep" campaign in 1994, now known as "Safe to Sleep," significantly changed the sleeping habits of infants. Prior to this campaign, babies were often placed on their bellies for sleep. Although the campaign has reduced the rates of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), the statistics include cases that may involve factors beyond sleeping position. Research also suggests that genetic and environmental factors play a role in SIDS cases. Consequently, with a healthy infant in a safe sleep environment, the likelihood of SIDS is exceedingly low.
Adhering to the "Safe Sleep 7" guidelines is essential, particularly for parents who co-sleep, a practice that many parents eventually adopt. These guidelines encompass factors like avoiding smoking in the household, ensuring sobriety of breastfeeding parents and their partners, and using a safe sleep surface.
Addressing Head Shape Concerns
Head shape concerns are often rooted in in-utero positioning and consistent pressure on one area of the skull during a baby's early months. Since a baby's skull is not fully formed and is malleable, spending extended periods with the head turned in the same direction on firm surfaces can influence skull shape. To mitigate this:
Minimize the use of containers like bouncers and swings.
Opt for a baby carrier or stroller bassinet attachment over the car seat.
Alternate sides during feedings, even when bottle-feeding.
Vary the side on which you carry your baby.
Engage in "rotisserie baby play," encouraging time on their back, belly, and both sides during floor activities.
Assist your baby in turning their head to the non-preferred side during sleep.
Review your camera roll for signs of a turn preference and adjust play activities accordingly.
For infants aged three months and under, mindful positioning can be incredibly effective in addressing cranial molding and asymmetry. Babies aged four to six months can also benefit from positioning and therapy, depending on the severity. Beyond five months, therapy and cranial helmets may be recommended for head shape correction.
Regardless of the severity of head shape concerns, it's advisable to have digital head measurements taken by a qualified orthotist around the five-month mark, as even mild plagiocephaly can lead to vision and jaw issues in the future. Early intervention is key to achieving the best possible outcomes.
If you're worried about your baby's head shape, reach out to a local occupational therapist or physical therapist specializing in this area – this means us, B.WELL TOTS. The sooner you address the concern, the more favorable the results will be.
