Understanding the Difference Between “Common” and “Normal”

In the early stages of life, a child’s brain and body are undergoing rapid development. During this time, even subtle imbalances or distortions in the structure of the skull and face can have significant effects on a child’s growth, neurological function, and overall health. Cranial-facial distortions, while often dismissed as “common” in infants and young children, are not necessarily “normal” and can have lasting impacts if left unaddressed.

What Are Cranial-Facial Distortions?

Cranial-facial distortions refer to irregularities or asymmetries in the shape, alignment, or function of the bones in the skull and face. These distortions can occur due to various factors, including birth trauma (such as prolonged labor or use of forceps), in-utero positioning, genetic predisposition, or developmental delays.

Common cranial-facial distortions include:

• Plagiocephaly: A flattening of one side of the skull, often associated with positional pressure in infants.
• Brachycephaly: A broad, short head shape caused by a flattening at the back of the skull.
• Scaphocephaly: A long, narrow head shape due to premature fusion of the sagittal suture.
• Facial Asymmetry: Unevenness or misalignment of facial features, such as the eyes, ears, or jaw.

How Cranial-Facial Distortions Affect Childhood Development

While many parents and healthcare providers may see cranial-facial distortions as simply aesthetic concerns, the implications can be far more profound. The shape and alignment of the skull and facial bones directly impact the development of the brain, cranial nerves, and sensory organs.

Impact on Neurological Function:

• Brain Development: The skull houses and protects the brain, and its shape can influence brain growth. Distortions may restrict the brain’s natural growth patterns, leading to developmental delays or cognitive impairments.
• Cranial Nerve Function: Cranial nerves control essential functions such as vision, hearing, swallowing, and facial movements. Misalignments or pressure on these nerves can result in functional impairments like poor coordination, speech delays, or sensory processing disorders.
• Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Flow: Cranial-facial distortions can impede the flow of CSF, which is vital for cushioning the brain, removing waste products, and delivering nutrients. Impaired CSF flow may contribute to headaches, irritability, or more serious neurological conditions.
• Milestone Development: The base of the brainstem contains pre-programmed feedback loops that trigger specific developmental milestones and reflexes. Pressure on this area of the brain due to cranial distortions can lead to aberrant milestone and reflex progression and/or integration.

Effects on Physical Development:

• Facial and Oral Development: Distortions in the cranial and facial bones can affect the alignment and development of the jaw, teeth, and palate. This can lead to issues such as improper bite, difficulty chewing, speech difficulties, and even breathing problems (like sleep apnea).
• Posture and Balance: The alignment of the skull affects the body’s overall posture. Imbalances in the head can lead to compensatory adjustments in the neck, spine, and pelvis, potentially resulting in poor posture, muscle imbalances, and difficulties with coordination and balance.

Impact on Emotional and Behavioral Development:

• Sensory Processing: Cranial-facial distortions can disrupt the normal processing of sensory information. Children may exhibit hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to stimuli, which can affect behavior, emotional regulation, and social interactions.
• Sleep Disruptions: Structural issues affecting breathing or causing discomfort may lead to disturbed sleep patterns, which are crucial for cognitive development and emotional well-being.

Common vs. Normal: Understanding the Difference

It is important to distinguish between what is “common” and what is “normal.” While cranial-facial distortions are common—they occur frequently among infants and young children—they are not normal in the sense of being healthy or without consequence.

• Common: A condition or occurrence is widespread or frequently seen. For instance, many babies are born with some degree of head asymmetry due to the birthing process.
• Normal: Refers to a state of health or function that is ideal, appropriate, and free from dysfunction. A “normal” head shape allows for unrestricted growth of the brain and optimal function of cranial nerves and sensory organs.

Misinterpreting “common” as “normal” can lead to underestimating the potential long-term effects of cranial-facial distortions. While these issues may resolve on their own in some cases, many children benefit from early intervention to prevent more serious developmental, neurological, and structural problems.

Early Intervention is Key

The earlier cranial-facial distortions are identified and addressed, the better the outcomes for the child. Pediatric chiropractic care can be highly effective in detecting and correcting these distortions. Chiropractors with specialized training in chiropractic cranial adjusting ^SM procedures can:

• Assess Cranial Function: Evaluate the movement and alignment of the cranial bones and their impact on the nervous system, dural meningeal system, CSF movement.
• Determine Effect on Growth and Development: Can evaluate the developing nervous system and determine if optimum or impeded functional development is present.
• Gentle Adjustments: Use precise, gentle techniques to restore normal cranial bone alignment and movement, improving overall function and relieving pressure on nerves.
• Monitor Development: Track the child’s progress, facilitate normal function outcomes, and make adjustments as necessary to ensure healthy development.

Why Choose Chiropractic Care for Cranial-Facial Distortions?

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive approach to treating cranial-facial distortions. By addressing the root cause of the problem—misalignments and restrictions in the cranial bones—chiropractic care helps support the child’s natural development and ensures that their nervous system functions optimally.

Chiropractic cranial adjusting can be particularly beneficial for:

• Infants with Plagiocephaly or Other Skull Deformities, including Torticollis: Helping restore normal shape and alignment and preventing future complications.
• Children with Developmental Delays or Retained Primal Reflex Challenges: Supporting neurological function by ensuring proper cranial alignment.
• Children with Feeding, Nursing or Digestive Issues: Allowing for proper jaw movements and improved feeding ability can support a healthier digestive system and parent to child bonding.
• Children Who Have Experienced Trauma: Addressing cranial misalignments caused by birth trauma, falls, or accidents.

Conclusion: The Importance of a Proactive Approach

Understanding the difference between “common” and “normal” is crucial when it comes to your child’s health. Cranial-facial distortions, while common, are not without consequence. Early detection and intervention can prevent potential developmental, neurological, and structural issues, ensuring your child’s optimal growth and well-being.

At Wellesley Chiropractic Office, we are committed to providing the highest standard of pediatric care. If you have concerns about your child’s cranial or facial development, contact us today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation. Together, we can support your child’s health and development in the most natural and effective way possible.

To learn more about Cranial Facial Distortions, their impact, and Common vs. Normal differences join us ONLINE for our course “Cranial Facial Distortions and Their Impact on Childhood Development”.