TMJ 'dysfunction' - Health implications

Deformational Plagiocephaly,
also known as “Flathead Syndrome” is a condition characterised by a flattening on one side of the back of the head. It may also involve bulging of the forehead, fullness of the cheek and ear misalignment on the same side as the flattening.

Under the broad term “Flathead Syndrome” there are two other head shapes: Brachycephaly and Dolichocephaly, also sometimes known as Scaphocephaly. In Brachycephaly, the head is wide in relation to its length and appears flat at the back. The head may have a high “peaked” appearance, and sometimes both sides of the forehead can be bulged. Dolichocephaly is when the head is narrow in relation to length (front to back).

plagiocephaly-deformational-1 (Please click on image to enlarge)

What Causes Flat Head Syndrome?
Deformational Plagiocephaly can be caused by a number of factors involving positioning, such as extended time spent in a neonatal unit, the birth process, position in the womb and often the infant's preferred sleeping position. It can also be caused by a condition called Torticollis.

Normally, any asymmetry settles in the first few weeks after birth. However, because the baby’s skull is still malleable and can be moulded by external forces, any existing flattening may not necessarily disappear of its own accord.

If you notice that perhaps your new borne child has any head asymmetry, it is imperative that you get in touch with a specialist to avoid serious future orthodontic and health problems.

Please have the babies checked in the first few months of life. The best outcomes are obtained in the first year of life.

Treatment for Plagiocephaly which is of the utmost importance, is obtainable at: The London Orthotic Consultancy - Plagiocephaly Treatment

You can contact the clinic through this link: The London Orthotic Consultancy's headquarters
The London Orthotic Consultancy Ltd
LOC Manufacturing Ltd
Units 5-7 Canbury 2000 Business Park
Elm Crescent
Kingston upon Thames
Surrey
KT2 6HJ
T: +44 (0) 20 8974 9989
E: info@londonorthotics.co.uk