Deformations (Positional Plagiocephaly):

Treatment:

There are two basic types of treatment: helmets and bands. Helmets are molded to fit a child's head and are worn until they are outgrown. There may be some evidence that children who wear helmets get better, but it is not very convincing. At our center, we do not recommend helmets. We are not convinced that they are very effective, and they are uncomfortable for the child to wear. Instead, we recommend bands. There are a number of different types of bands. We prefer, and have been using, the DOC band, which was developed in Phoenix. This band is now available at a number of centers around the U.S. This band is worn 23 hours a day, and is open at the top of the head. One of the key differences between the band and the helmet, aside from the fact that it is smaller and more comfortable, is that the band is shaved down every couple of weeks, where the skull is flat, in order to direct the skull growth to fill in the flattened area. Treatment usually lasts about 14 weeks (usually the younger the child, the shorter the treatment period), and it is very important that treatment be started before the child is 10 months old. While some children begin treatment beyond this time, we believe that the benefits are small considering the much longer time that the treatment takes, and it is probably not worthwhile. Data from our center suggests that once a child has been corrected, this correction continues as the child grows, and that there is no tendency for recurrence.

What causes a deformation?

How do I know if my child has a deformation?

Do deformations cause any internal problems?

Why do deformations need to be treated?

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