Flat Heads in Babies

The appearance of a flat spot on a baby’s skull can be an indication that the baby has tightness of the neck muscles or that the baby isn’t getting enough opportunity for movement. The flattening of the head or skull may be an early warning sign of developmental issues such as low muscle tone or visual problems and it is associated with long-term vision problems, jaw problems and ear infections.

To reduce the risk of developing a flat head, reduce the amount of time your baby spends in positioners. Create an environment for your baby to move, stretch and turn his or her head side to side.

Tummy Time:

Encourage your baby to do tummy time daily. Little and often is best to begin with, so in the first few weeks, your baby can spend 1-2 minutes, 2-3 times daily on his or her tummy. This will help build your baby’s head, neck and upper body strength for when he or she is older.

Baby Wearing:

  Infant slings, carriers or wraps are a great way to keep babies from spending too much time on their backs.

Baby wearing has many other benefits. It can help foster a close bond between the parent and the baby. Research also shows that carried babies cry less and babies who are held close are more able to regulate their physiological functions (breathing, heart rate, temperature) in response to their caregiver. Also, carrying a baby properly can help in the natural development of the baby’s cranium, spine and postural muscles.

Flat Head Prevention Pillows:

If you choose to use a flathead-prevention pillow, make sure to follow the safety guidelines of the manufacturer. Do not leave your baby unattended while he or she is using the pillow.

Certain neck support pillows for car seats are also designed to prevent flat heads. Ensure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for your child’s safety.

References: 

Mamanatural.com

Candokiddo

Kidshealth.org

childrennational.org

Disclaimer:

NEVER DISREGARD MEDICAL ADVICE OR DELAY SEEKING MEDICAL CARE BECAUSE OF SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ ON OR ACCESSED THROUGH  THESHOPVILLE’S WEBSITE, Or THESHOPVILLE’S SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM AND TWITTER.

The content or material on this blog is provided for informational purposes only. It is general information that may not apply to you as an individual, and is not a substitute for your doctor’s medical care or advice.

The inclusion of any link on The Shopville’s blog is for reference purposes only and does not imply The Shopville’s endorsement of the linked site or its affiliates, or any information, content, products, services, advertising or other materials presented on or through such web sites. The Shopville is not responsible for the availability, accuracy, or any information, content, products or services accessible from such sites.