A flat or misshapen head is most frequently caused by a condition called deformational plagiocephaly. Plagiocephaly is caused by external forces on baby’s head – either before or after birth. Before the baby is born plagiocephaly may be caused by a crowded or small uterus, unusual positioning or a shortage of amniotic fluid. After birth, plagiocephaly is usually caused by lying and sleeping in the same position. As the head flattens, it naturally rests on the flat area, making it worse.
Sometimes plagiocephaly is related to torticollis – a condition in which a muscle on one side of the neck is too short or too tight – causing the baby to rest their head in one position.
If plagiocephaly is caught at the right time, treatment in the form of an orthosis – like the CranioCap® – is usually very successful. The best time to begin treatment is between the ages of 4 and 6 months. With a diagnosis of plagiocephaly, the more serious condition of craniosynostosis can be ruled out.