Positional cranial deformities are alterations in the shape of the baby’s head that appear during the first months of life, when the skull is especially soft and fragile. As the baby’s brain grows, the cranial bones expand to provide adequate space. If an external force (for example, a flat surface such as a crib) limits this expansion in a certain area, growth will be compromised in this area. They are classified according to the area of the skull affected, although combined forms can also occur.

Sleeping in a supine position, that is, face up, is the main cause of the appearance of these deformities. The recommendation to sleep on your back (1994) in order to reduce the incidence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) has favored the appearance of cases of plagiocephaly and brachycephaly. This does not mean that babies should stop sleeping on their backs, since it is the recommended position for being the safest, but rather that we must take measures to prevent these deformities from appearing.

STIFF NECK? Many studies have found that up to 9 out of 10 babies with plagiocephaly have torticollis at the same time. It is necessary to diagnose torticollis as soon as possible in order to start treating it and prevent the possible appearance of plagiocephaly, or to prevent it from getting worse.