What Is Positional Head Bias?

Positional head deformity is a malformation of the baby’s skull that occurs as a result of external pressure. It consists of  a small depression on the back of the head. 

Positional head skew can also occur on the side of the head, or around the parietal area.

It is because of this condition that  pediatricians recommend certain positions that babies should sleep in. 

Traditionally, it was advised that babies sleep with their face down. However, this position has been associated with cases of sudden unexpected infant death .

Therefore, specialists began to recommend that newborns should sleep on their backs.

Although some people attribute poor, developmental consequences with positional head bias,  it actually poses no risk. 

A clear and timely diagnosis can reverse the effect of head deformity. The treatment is also non-invasive.

How does it occur?

There are three common causes of positional head bias, and they all have something to do with external conditions; therefore, it is not a congenital disease.

• Static position.  In the first months after birth, the baby’s mobility is limited. This allows the child to spend longer periods of time in the same position unless someone interferes.

Leaving the baby in the same position for a long time can cause positional head tilt. The same can happen in their stroller.

In this case, positional head skew is caused by the pressure that the pad puts on the baby’s head.

• Uterine pressure.  There are cases of positional bias that occur in babies that develop in a small uterus, or babies that are part of multiple pregnancies. It also occurs in babies with muscle torticollis, due to lack of space.

The cause of this pathology may be because  there have been malformations in the uterus or there have been problems with the amniotic fluid. It can also occur if the baby grows too much, relative to how much space there is.

• Instruments at birth.  Some babies for positional head skew after birth where a delivery rod or suction cup has been used. In some cases, these instruments can cause deformities.

Another cause of positional head bias is premature birth. One possible explanation for this is that the baby’s skull is not fully developed yet.

Positional head skew is a malformation of the baby’s skull; it can also occur on the side of the head, or around the parietal area. ”

How to confirm the presence of positional head bias

About 10% of all newborns suffer from positional head deformity. The immediate consequences of this condition are aesthetic only.

Most specialists insist on ruling out neurological problems associated with this malformation.

The main method, to diagnose this, is through observation. 

Through the periodic check-ups at the pediatrician, they should measure your baby’s head, and observe it from all angles.

Positional head skew in itself is a distinct depression on the back or side of the head.

Another way to confirm this condition is by touching it,  using “finger, hand, thumb measurement”. Very carefully, the adult should place his little fingers behind each of the baby’s ears.

The palm should rest on the side of the head and the thumbs should meet on the forehead to form a perfect semicircle.

How to prevent scoliosis?

There are certain healthy habits that parents can implement while taking care of their babies, to prevent this condition. Here are a few suggestions:

• Change the positions constantly.  You can move the baby from one side to the other while they sleep so that you prevent them from maintaining the same position.
• Place the baby face down while he or she is awake.  This position is recommended after the baby reaches the age of 3 months.
• Use special pillows.  There are some special pillows that have a lacing where the baby supports his head.

• Pick up the babies.  The most effective way to prevent this condition is to have the baby in your arms. You can use special items, such as slings.

To treat positional bias, doctors recommend using physiotherapeutic exercises. Parents can be a great help to their children after this diagnosis. 

In more severe cases,  it may be advisable to wear a special helmet. The helmet has a space in the area where the condition occurs. The baby has to wear the helmet all day, for about 4 months.