Effectiveness of Repositioning, Physical Therapy, and Cranial Remolding in Infants With Cranial Deformation
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Summary
This study will examine how effective caregiver's repositioning strategies are in correcting an infant's deformational cranial shape, as well as the effectiveness of the use of a custom cranial remolding orthosis for treatment of deformational head shapes. Infants with torticollis will be concurrently enrolled in physical therapy treatment until the torticollis is resolved. A normal, unaffected population will be studied to compare typical growth to the growth of infants undergoing active treatment.
Description
Infants 2 months of age who have been diagnosed with a deformational head shape will be begin repositioning therapy (and physical therapy if torticollis is present) and be followed at least monthly. At 4, 5, and 6 months of age, if the head shape has not resolved, they will be given the option to pursue treatment with a cranial remolding orthosis. All affected infants will undergo active treatment until the head shape is resolved or the infant is 12 months of age (whichever comes first). Normal infants will be evaluated at 2, 6, and 12 months of age and will not be enrolled in any active trea…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 0–0 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria for Control Group: * Healthy infants with normal physical development and no need for physical therapy intervention Exclusion Criteria for Control Group: * Infants with abnormal head shapes (plagiocephaly or craniosynostosis) * Infants with growth abnormalities (such as genetic conditions) * Infants with developmental delay significant to warrant physical therapy or occupational therapy
Interventions
- OtherRepositioning Therapy
Caregivers will be instructed how to increase tummy time activities and reshape their infant's heads using at-home methods to direct their attention to the non-preferred side.
- DeviceCranial Remolding Orthosis
A custom cranial remolding orthosis (FDA Class II device) will be made to fit affected infants. this should be worn 23 hours per day and the Orthotist needs to be seen regularly for adjustments until the head shape is resolved.
Location
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallas, Texas