plagiocephaly

[Rosanne]

we have recently seen a large increase in the number of babies presenting with plagiocephaly in the community, has anyone else noticed an increase? Any ideas as to the cause?

[kterrell]

yes - may be due to the SIDS recommnedation for babies to sleep on their backs and then the babies being allowed to develop unilateral habits leading to flattening of one side of the skull which may then lead to further soft tissue shortening etc. ?

[marjenta]

We also have seen this increase and feel it is related to the babies now sleeping and on their backs due to education re SIDS. We encourage lots of tummy time while awake and head supports if supine and awake under supervision.

[kathygardiner]

i think it is due to the reduction in side to side sleeping, since SIDS recommendations introduced. I am finding babies still have mild asymmetry 6-12 months later. What do others think?