Plagiocephaly is diagnosed by a physical exam; imaging is rarely required.

Certain factors make it more likely for infants to develop plagiocephaly:

• Preterm births
• Restrictive intrauterine environment
• Multiple births
• Traumatic delivery
• Torticollis (tightness in the muscles of the neck)
• Strong preference for one side of the head
• Cervical anomalies
• Neurological issues

A variety of treatments can successfully treat plagiocephaly:

• Repositioning
• Regular periods of supervised tummy time
• Physical therapy
• Cranial orthosis (helmet)

Early intervention is best for babies with plagiocephaly. Babies with a strong preference for one side or another should be identified. Surgery is rarely necessary.

At our initial comprehensive evaluation, your infant may see three of our specialists:

• Neurosurgery Pediatric Nurse Practitioner from the University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital
  • Initial evaluation
  • Cranial measurements
• Physical Therapist from our M Health pediatric physical therapy department
  • Check for issues with neck movement
  • Evaluate for other developmental markers
    • Note: If infants are already receiving therapy from another provider, they can choose not to visit with the physical therapist at the Plagiocephaly Clinic
• Orthotist from our M Health Fairview Orthotics and Prosthetics department
  • If the measurements indicate that a head-reshaping orthosis (helmet) may be needed, initial scanning can be done
     

SERVICE OPTIONS

OPTION 1: Initial multidisciplinary evaluation (Minneapolis)

Initial evaluation, including cranial measurements, done by a neurosurgery provider. If indicated, the evaluation will also include:

• Pediatric physical therapy
  • Check for issues with neck movement, including torticollis
  • Evaluate for other developmental delays
• Orthotics
  • Evaluation, cranial measurements
  • If cranial helmet indicated, perform digital cranial scan to initiate helmet fabrication

Note: If follow-up physical therapy or orthotic appointments are needed, families can choose locations most convenient for them. Locations listed on back.

OPTION 2: Direct order to pediatric therapy and/or orthotics

• Pediatric physical therapy 
  • Check for issues with neck movement, including torticollis
  • Obtain cranial measurements
  • Evaluate for other developmental delays
• Orthotics
  • Evaluation, cranial measurements
  • If cranial helmet indicated, perform digital cranial scan to initiate helmet fabrication