Consequence of plagiocephaly and flat head in newborns
One in two newborns tends to develop a postural cranial deformation, but what is the consequence of plagiocephaly and flat head?
In this article I will tell you what this problem entails and how to best prevent it.
1. What is plagiocephaly and flat head in newborns?
Plagiocephaly is one of the types of flat head in newborns , but the more correct term would be postural cranial deformation.
In fact, it is a flattening of the newborn's skull in the first months of life due to the head always being positioned on the same side. The baby's skull is very malleable in the first months to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal and for the rapid growth of the brain. If on the one hand this characteristic is fundamental, on the other hand it leads to the possibility of incurring cranial alterations in the case of incorrect postural habits .
The latter can be unknowingly implemented by parents or by the child. The first case includes, for example, the continuous use of devices such as a baby seat, bouncer or wraparound pillow ; while the second case occurs if the child has contractures in the neck or back.
2. What is the consequence of plagiocephaly and flat head?
The problem of flat head affects almost one child in 2, but what are the consequences related to this cranial deformation? We can recognize 3, let's see them in detail!
Economic cost
Let's start from the first consequence of plagiocephaly and flat head by talking about the huge expense that is required of parents in order to cure the problem.
But how much does it cost to fix a postural cranial deformation?
Whether parents turn to the National Health Service or to private facilities, each specialist visit will cost between 60 and 150 euros.
Usually, to completely resolve a postural cranial deformation, at least 5 sessions are needed, considering the initial visit, the treatments and the subsequent check-ups.
Doing the math, therefore, the cost to solve flat head in newborns varies from 300 euros to 750 euros. So, a considerable expense!
Parental guilt
In addition to the economic factor, many parents of my little patients share a sense of guilt for having “allowed” their child to develop a cranial alteration. In fact, parents often do not rest until the problem is completely resolved, going through a really hard time.
Furthermore, they find themselves catapulted into a very stressful and fearful cycle having to make several visits to multiple doctors to rule out more serious problems.
The first months after the birth of your child are a period of important changes and of searching for new balances. Having to go for visits and check-ups continuously does not allow either the parents or the baby to build their balance.