Cranial Asymmetry

The cause of Cranial Asymmetry is the early closing or growing together of the bones of the skull. They could be uneven due to baby’s sleeping position or the positioning of the baby in a car seat.

Although there is ongoing research on the subject of cranial asymmetry, no definitive measurements have been identified. As a result, parents rely on the expertise of a medical practitioner to assess whether a baby has Cranial Asymmetry or not.

Parents who are concerned about SIDS prefer to lay their baby down on his or her back rather than on the stomach. This can result in uneven pressure being exerted on the skull. The result is the flattening of the cranium. Uneven or excessive prenatal compression of the foetus can also result in Cranial Asymmetry. The condition, however, is in no way life threatening.

Treating Cranial Asymmetry

To treat the deformity, Cranial orthoses such as helmets or headbands may be used. This device aims to bring pressure to bear on prominent areas of the skull to encourage growth in the flatter areas. The orthosis will also discourage the baby from lying with its head on the flattened area. This treatment is recommended for babies from 6 weeks to one year. During this period, the skull undergoes particularly intensive growth.

The helmets are shaped according to the specific need of the infants being treated. The device is usually prescribed for a maximum period of 23 hours per day for 6 to 24 weeks. As the skull grows, the orthosis will require adjustment to cater for the change in shape of the cranium.

Let Baby Move Around in The Crib

Parents are counselled to ensure that their baby is never allowed to remain in only one sleeping or resting position. Let your baby roll around and move freely at night. In some instances, the cranium rectifies itself and your baby will grow without the need of an orthosis.