Patricia Mortenson1, Paul Steinbok, David Smith. 1. Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada. pmortenson@cw.bc.ca
Abstract
PURPOSE: As the incidence of deformational plagiocephaly (DP) has risen, so has the demand on clinicians to make appropriate treatment recommendations. While knowledge of risk factors and natural history continue to evolve, there is uncertainty and controversy regarding intervention approaches. The purpose of this report is to review current treatment approaches for DP, in particular the use of orthotic helmets. METHODS: A narrative literature review was conducted to summarize current evidence supporting preventative measures and re-positional and orthotic interventions. RESULTS: When started early at under 2 months of age, positional efforts and 'tummy time' can be effective in preventing and improving DP, but these strategies need to be better promoted to caregivers. The timing, severity and parental concerns as indicators for orthotic treatment are reviewed. Limitations discussed include high cost, lower level of evidence and poor understanding of long-term outcomes and caregiving implications. CONCLUSION: For optimal outcome, current evidence supports use of repositioning in young infants and start of orthotic helmet treatment for infants with significant DP at 4-6 months. Further research is needed to better understand the parameters for use (stratified by age and severity), long-term outcomes and natural history and the impact on caregiving, as well as the cultural significance of head shape.
PURPOSE: As the incidence of deformational plagiocephaly (DP) has risen, so has the demand on clinicians to make appropriate treatment recommendations. While knowledge of risk factors and natural history continue to evolve, there is uncertainty and controversy regarding intervention approaches. The purpose of this report is to review current treatment approaches for DP, in particular the use of orthotic helmets. METHODS: A narrative literature review was conducted to summarize current evidence supporting preventative measures and re-positional and orthotic interventions. RESULTS: When started early at under 2 months of age, positional efforts and 'tummy time' can be effective in preventing and improving DP, but these strategies need to be better promoted to caregivers. The timing, severity and parental concerns as indicators for orthotic treatment are reviewed. Limitations discussed include high cost, lower level of evidence and poor understanding of long-term outcomes and caregiving implications. CONCLUSION: For optimal outcome, current evidence supports use of repositioning in young infants and start of orthotic helmet treatment for infants with significant DP at 4-6 months. Further research is needed to better understand the parameters for use (stratified by age and severity), long-term outcomes and natural history and the impact on caregiving, as well as the cultural significance of head shape.
Authors: Leo A van Vlimmeren; Yolanda van der Graaf; Magda M Boere-Boonekamp; Monique P L'Hoir; Paul J M Helders; Raoul H H Engelbert Journal: Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med Date: 2008-08
Authors: Christy M McKinney; Michael L Cunningham; Victoria L Holt; Brian Leroux; Jacqueline R Starr Journal: Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol Date: 2009-07 Impact factor: 3.980
Authors: Renske M van Wijk; Janine A van Til; Catharina G M Groothuis-Oudshoorn; Monique P L'Hoir; Magda M Boere-Boonekamp; Maarten J IJzerman Journal: Childs Nerv Syst Date: 2014-03-19 Impact factor: 1.475
Authors: Tiffany Graham; Kelly Millay; Jijia Wang; Beverley Adams-Huet; Elizabeth O'Briant; Madison Oldham; Shacoya Smith Journal: J Clin Med Date: 2020-04-05 Impact factor: 4.241