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Assessment of the Efficacy of An Osteopathic Treatment in Infants with Biomechanical Impairments to Suckling
Published on: February 5, 2019
[Multidisciplinary approach to treatment of positional cranial asymmetry in infants]
U Scheibl1, J A Mitterer2,3
1Ortho Scheibl, Praxis für Kinder- und Neuroorthopädie, Albertgasse 50/1, 1080, Wien, Österreich. info@ortho-scheibl.at.
Insights
Positional cranial asymmetry, or flat head syndrome, is rising. Early intervention with positioning therapy or helmets is key for treating infant head shape deformities.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Developmental Biology
- Orthotics
Background:
- The "Back to Sleep" campaign has led to an increased prevalence of positional cranial asymmetry in infants.
- Some cases of deformational plagiocephaly require intervention beyond simple repositioning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for positional cranial asymmetry.
- To emphasize the importance of early intervention and multidisciplinary care.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis relies on clinical assessment and infant head measurements.
- Treatment options include positioning therapy, physiotherapy, and growth-guiding orthoses (helmets).
Main Results:
- Early education on alternative positioning can prevent deformities.
- Positioning therapy and physiotherapy are effective for mild cases.
- Growth-guiding orthoses are necessary for severe cases, with early initiation yielding optimal results.
Conclusions:
- Timely and appropriate treatment is crucial for improving infant head shape and ear position.
- Multidisciplinary approaches, including physiotherapy and osteopathy, are essential for comprehensive care.
Abstract:
The prevalence of positional cranial asymmetry has significantly increased since the introduction of the "Back to Sleep" campaign. Some deformities require therapeutic measures, such as growth-guiding head prostheses. The diagnosis is based on the clinical features, a thorough clinical examination and measurement of the infant's head. Prevention includes early education of parents about alternative positioning methods. Early interventions such as positioning therapy and physiotherapy can be effective in mild cases. In severe cases, the use of growth-guiding orthoses is necessary. The treatment and timing are crucial as head growth is highest in the first year of life. Helmet treatment should be started early to achieve optimal results in order to achieve an improvement in the head shape and ear position. Multidisciplinary approaches including physiotherapy and osteopathy are essential.
