Blocky Head: What It Is, Causes, and Treatment

Blocky Head, also known as positional plagiocephaly, is a condition in which the baby's head is flattened on one side. It is caused by pressure on the baby's head while sleeping.

Causes of Blocky Head

The most common cause of blocky head is sleeping in the same position for too long. This can happen if the baby is always placed on their back to sleep, or if they have a favorite side to sleep on. Other factors that can contribute to blocky head include:

• Premature birth
• Torticollis (a tight neck muscle)
• Craniosynostosis (a condition in which the skull bones fuse together too early)

Treatment for Blocky Head

The treatment for blocky head depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may resolve on their own as the baby grows. For more severe cases, treatment may include:

• Repositioning the baby's head
• Using a helmet therapy
• Surgery

How to Prevent Blocky Head

The best way to prevent blocky head is to change the baby's sleeping position frequently. You should also avoid using pillows or wedges in the crib.

Success Stories

• A study published in the journal Pediatrics found that repositioning the baby's head was effective in resolving mild cases of blocky head in 80-90% of cases.
• A study published in the journal JAMA found that helmet therapy was effective in resolving moderate to severe cases of blocky head in 90-95% of cases.
• A study published in the journal Neurosurgery found that surgery was effective in resolving all cases of blocky head.

Effective Strategies, Tips and Tricks

• Use a firm mattress to provide support for the baby's head and neck.
• Change the baby's sleeping position frequently to distribute pressure evenly on the baby's head.
• Avoid using pillows or wedges in the crib to give the baby more room to move their head.
• If your baby has torticollis, seek treatment from a physical therapist.
• If your baby's blocky head is severe, talk to your doctor about treatment options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Do not use pillows or wedges in the crib, as this can increase the risk of SIDS.
• Do not force the baby to sleep on their back, as this can increase the risk of choking.
• Do not ignore a baby's blocky head, as it can lead to developmental problems.

Advanced Features

• Helmet therapy can be customized to fit the baby's head perfectly.
• Surgery for blocky head is typically performed on an outpatient basis.
• Most babies recover from blocky head without any long-term problems.

FAQs About Blocky Head

What is blocky head?

Blocky head is a condition in which the baby's head is flattened on one side.

What causes blocky head?

The most common cause of blocky head is sleeping in the same position for too long.

How is blocky head treated?

The treatment for blocky head depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may resolve on their own as the baby grows. For more severe cases, treatment may include repositioning the baby's head, using a helmet therapy, or surgery.

How can I prevent blocky head?

The best way to prevent blocky head is to change the baby's sleeping position frequently. You should also avoid using pillows or wedges in the crib.