Understanding Scaphocephaly: Causes, Signs, and Treatment

Feb 6

4 min read

Scaphocephaly is a less common but prevalent head shape condition in infants, characterized by a long and narrow skull. While it may not be as widely discussed as other cranial deformities like plagiocephaly or brachycephaly, it is still important for parents to recognize what scaphocephaly is, what causes it, and how it can be effectively treated.

[ska·fuh·seh·fuh·lee]

Scaphocephaly is a head shape asymmetry where an infant’s head appears long and narrow, often with a more prominent forehead and back of the head. This condition results from external pressure or an underlying issue affecting skull development, restricting growth in width while encouraging elongation.

In some cases, scaphocephaly occurs due to prolonged positioning, while in others, it may be associated with premature birth or other medical factors. Recognizing scaphocephaly early and understanding the best treatment options can help ensure optimal head shape development for your baby.

Several factors can contribute to the development of scaphocephaly, with the most common being positional habits and premature birth. Understanding these causes can help parents take preventative steps and seek the appropriate treatment if needed.

1. Sleeping on Their Side

Some infants naturally prefer to sleep on their side, which can create a scaphocephaly-like head shape over time.
This preference is often influenced by positional habits, such as a baby always turning toward a parent, a light source, or a familiar sound.
If a baby frequently sleeps on one side without repositioning, the pressure applied to the skull can lead to narrowing and elongation.

💡 Tip: To minimize this risk, parents can encourage varied sleep positions by alternating the baby’s sleep direction in the crib and incorporating tummy time during awake hours.

2. Being Born Prematurely

Premature infants are at a higher risk of developing scaphocephaly due to their softer skull bones and extended medical care in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit).
Many premature babies require respiratory support, which often involves keeping their head in a fixed position for extended periods.
This lack of natural head movement increases the likelihood of flattening and elongation of the skull.

💡 Tip: If your baby was born prematurely, closely monitor their head shape development and consult a head shape specialist or pediatric professional if concerns arise. Early intervention is key!

If left untreated, scaphocephaly may lead to long-term challenges, including:

Persistent head shape asymmetry: The elongated and narrow skull shape may become permanent.
Potential developmental concerns: Severe cases may impact balance and head control, influencing motor milestone development.
Difficulties with helmet and headgear fitting: Head protection for sports, work, or other activities may require modifications for proper fit.

Early recognition and intervention provide the best opportunity to address scaphocephaly effectively and minimize any long-term concerns.

The earlier scaphocephaly is identified, the easier it is to address. During the first four months of life, a baby’s skull is highly malleable, making repositioning techniques and tummy time most effective for preventing or correcting mild flattening. If you notice a long and narrow head shape during this critical period, early intervention with repositioning and guidance from pediatric health professionals can often help improve the concern.

If your baby is 4 months or older and you haven’t seen improvement or still have concerns, we recommend scheduling a free head shape assessment at ROKband. While all babies are born with different head shapes—some naturally more narrow than others—treatment for scaphocephaly is typically not recommended unless flattening is determined to be in the severe range.

If treatment is recommended, cranial remodelling orthoses (CRO), like the ROKband, are particularly effective because the skull is growing rapidly, and we can redirect new growth to the desirable areas to create symmetry. A professional assessment ensures that parents receive expert guidance on whether treatment is necessary or if continued monitoring and repositioning techniques are sufficient.

ROKbands are a safe, effective, and non-invasive option for treating scaphocephaly in infants. Unlike other helmet therapies, the ROKband is custom-designed using 3D scanning technology, for each baby based on their unique head shape and growth needs.

How Does the ROKband Work?

Encourages Growth Where Needed: The ROKband features strategically placed openings in areas where more growth is required, allowing natural skull development to occur in those spaces.
Prevents Further Skull Narrowing: By holding and protecting areas where the skull has already grown excessively, the ROKband ensures that new growth occurs in a more balanced and symmetrical way.
Comfortable and Lightweight: Made with breathable and lightweight materials, the ROKband ensures maximum comfort while being worn for 20-23 hours per day.

At ROKband, we are committed to innovation, comfort, and expert care.

Here’s what makes our CRO designs different:

Advanced 3D Scanning Technology: We use precise 3D, LED light scanning technology to capture the exact shape of your baby’s head, ensuring that each CRO is custom-designed to deliver optimal results.
Tailored Design: Every ROKband CRO is custom-designed using specialized CAD/CAM technology to fit each baby’s unique head shape. Our orthotists take the time to review every scan and design each ROKband to ensure the fit is both corrective and comfortable.
Lightweight Materials: Our CROs are made with hypoallergenic materials designed for comfort. ROKbands are 1/2 the weight and 1/3 the thickness of other helmets, so babies can participate in daily activities without being hindered by a bulky helmet.
Breathable: ROKbands have been engineered with increased ventilation to make them as much as 4 degrees cooler. This minimizes the discomfort of sweating, skin irritation, and unwanted odours.
Aesthetic Choices: We offer a variety of fun, customized, and colorful designs to make the experience enjoyable for both babies and parents.
Encourages Skin-to-Skin Bonding: Unlike traditional helmets, ROKband allows for better bonding moments with your baby by ensuring a more comfortable fit.
Expert Monitoring: Our team of orthotists and clinicians closely track your baby’s progress, making necessary adjustments to optimize treatment.

Conclusion: Early Action for the Best Results

If you notice that your baby’s head shape appears long and narrow, it’s essential to seek early advice and assessment to determine whether scaphocephaly treatment is needed.

ROKband provides a customized, gentle, and effective approach to correcting scaphocephaly, allowing your baby’s head to develop symmetrically and naturally.