What are the typical symptoms?
Dolichocephaly is characterised by a long and narrow head shape. Other symptoms may include a pointed forehead, a lack of symmetry in the face, and a narrow face shape.
Why do babies get dolichocephaly?
Dolichocephaly can happen to babies due to genetic factors or external factors such as pressure on the head during delivery.
What issues does it cause?
Dolichocephaly may cause discomfort for the baby, especially if the condition is severe. If l untreated, dolichocephaly can lead to more serious complications, such as developmental delays, visual problems, and difficulty with balance.
Dolichocephaly can be distressing for parents who worry about their child’s health, development, or unusual appearance, however, there are effective ways to treat it.
Repositioning and Tummy Time:
Repositioning is the first recommended course of treatment. It simply means frequently changing the baby’s position, whether sitting or lying down, so that there isn’t too much pressure applied to any one part of the head.
Read more about repositioning and tummy time
Helmet Therapy:
Helmet therapy, also known as cranial remoulding treatment, involves the baby wearing a specialised helmet for 23 hours a day to gently guide the direction of their head’s growth. Treatment times vary but usually take several months. This therapy has been shown to be effective in correcting head shape in most cases, particularly for severe cases of dolichocephaly.
Find out more about cranial remoulding helmets