Plagiocephaly, more commonly known as flat head syndrome, is a flattening of the back of the skull in babies. The number of cases has increased significantly in recent years. The causes are multiple: pregnancy and especially childbirth, a malformation, a torticollis or a lying position that is too prolonged are often an explanation for plagiocephaly. 

What is flat head syndrome?

The flat head syndrome does not affect the baby’s development or the development of his brain. However, without treatment for plagiocephaly, the skull will not develop like most other children: it will be flat. In addition, the way of standing and moving may be affected by the flat head syndrome, as the child will tend to adopt asymmetrical postures.

Plagiocephaly helmets

The cure for flat head syndrome is the plagiocephaly helmet. This orthosis for young children allows the skull bones to be reshaped in order to regain symmetry. Plagiocephaly helmets are custom-made by a practitioner using the baby’s still malleable head, as the skull bones are fused together between the 18th and 24th months. Orthotic treatment is generally faster when the child is taken care of young, between 5 and 12 months of age. 

The plagiocephaly helmet will be worn 23 hours a day for 3 to 4 months.

The advantages of a plagiocephaly helmet

The treatment of plagiocephaly with an orthosis allows a diagnosis adapted to each child. The orthosis is made according to the child’s skull and according to its own specificities. The child and his parents can choose between several models of plagiocephaly helmets in terms of colors or patterns. However, the orthotist will recommend the shape of the helmet according to the shape of the baby’s skull. The follow-up of the treatment is personalized and regular, in order to adapt the orthosis according to the child’s growth. Adjustments are therefore made to ensure optimal comfort and effectiveness of the helmet.  

EVO clinics are experts in the treatment of plagiocephaly. Laboratoire EVO, located in Montreal and Sherbrooke, will be able to advise you in order to obtain the best orthosis for your child.