5 tips for parents to address their child’s cranial asymmetry
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Finding that your baby’s head has a flat or crooked shape can raise concerns and questions for parents and caregivers. According to Ana Luiza Soares, a physiotherapist specializing in neuropediatrics at Helper Kids, the condition, known as cranial asymmetry, is relatively common, but it is crucial to understand that it requires specialized monitoring and, if necessary, immediate diagnosis and treatment.
Although many people attribute cranial asymmetry only to a cosmetic problem, the expert warns that the condition can be associated with problems such as structural and functional changes in children. This includes delays in motor development, changes in visual and auditory acuity, recurrent ear infections, craniofacial asymmetries, and changes in the dental arch, among others.
Why does this happen?
Asymmetry can occur for various reasons related to behavioral and environmental factors during the child’s growth period. The most common cause, positional plagiocephaly, occurs when the baby experiences repeated pressure in a certain area of the skull, which can occur during pregnancy with limitation of intrauterine movements or fixed positions, up to the moment of birth and routine situations, such as sleep positioning and excessive use of sleep devices, such as car seats or infant seats.
In addition to these causes, it is important to highlight situations in which asymmetry is associated with other more complex pathologies such as congenital torticollis, a condition in which the neck muscles are more tense on one side, leading to a preference for turning the head in one direction specific…
Change of posture
For asymmetries related to postural and non-postural changes, monitoring with a specialized physiotherapist will be fundamental for the effectiveness of the treatment. The professional will perform a detailed initial evaluation to determine the severity of the asymmetry and identify contributing factors.
In addition to prescribing specific stimuli and exercises to strengthen muscles and promote motor development, as well as the symmetry of movements, the physiotherapist can guide parents on postural practices and strategies that optimize the child’s healthy development.
And in more severe cases of asymmetry, other interventions may be considered, such as the use of cranial orthoses, popularly known as helmets.
The specialist emphasizes that, although cranial asymmetry is not associated with neurological problems, it is essential that parents consult the doctor as soon as possible. Diagnosis and treatment may be considered urgent for several reasons, including:
– Changes in behavior: Many interventions for cranial asymmetry involve behavioral adjustments, such as changing sleep position and stimuli such as “tummy time.” In more severe cases, the use of a cranial orthosis is indicated. It’s easier to make these adjustments when children are younger;
– Specific interventions and effectiveness: up to 14 months, the use of a cranial orthosis, called a helmet, is recommended, as its effectiveness is directly related to the malleability of the skull during the first months and years of life. The idea of the brace is to gently mold the shape of the skull, encouraging growth in the necessary areas and allowing the head to become more symmetrical;
– Prevent future complications: Untreated cranial asymmetries can lead to complications such as vision problems, hearing problems or even delays in motor development. Early intervention can help prevent or reduce these complications.
Many parents find themselves facing similar situations and the important thing is to act proactively in finding solutions. Furthermore, it is important to highlight that the correction of cranial asymmetries goes beyond functional implications. Early intervention guarantees greater aesthetic benefit, avoiding future psychosocial problems.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
