Lucas has been diagnosed with in utero left sided plagiocephaly (significant flattening and asymmetry of the back of the head and face and ear misalignment) and we have been seeing a physical therapist for his torticollis (a condition in which the head is tilted toward one side, and the chin is elevated and turned toward the opposite side) for three months.
The good news is that plagiocephaly and torticollis are not life threatening and are easily treated.
Yesterday, we were told Lucas is a candidate for the DOC Band, a lightweight 6-oz helmet, that works by applying mild holding pressure and redirecting growth to less prominent areas. The band must be worn for 23 hours a day, only removing for bathing and dressing for up to four months.
The use of DOC Band is NOT a cosmetic fix, it is a restorative fix designed to bring the infant’s head back to its normal head shape and balance the asymmetry.
I am devastated.
I don’t want my baby to wear this device.
I think my son is perfect exactly the way he is.
I don’t want strangers to stare at him in the band. I don’t want to hear their comments or questions and I certainly do not want to respond to them.
I am angry that my OBGYN and ultrasound technicians didn’t see in the umpteen ultrasounds I had done that my baby was crunched up in my womb. We could have possibly repositioned him.
I am vain.
I am also a mother who wants the very best for my child. A misshapen head can lead to vision problems, ear infections, headaches and speech disorders. Not to mention the psychological impact of society’s often cruel view of deformity.
This is going to be a difficult four months for me, but Lucas will never remember it and in the long run will probably thank us for making this decision.
The best is yet to be and you’re welcome, my love.
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You're an AWESOME Mommy and he WILL thank you, one day. Plus, a boy in "uniform" is always cute 🙂 That's still your boy under there!
So true Tonya. Lucas is never going to remember any of this. He will definitely be thanking you for these 4 months. Because of you, he won't have this issue with his head when he is older. So, he is a candidate for the Doc Band. What does that mean exactly? Are they highly recommending he get it? I just don't understand.. His head seems fine and I think I've spent enough time with him to notice anything abnormal and I just don't see it.. Do you or Todd? Of course, we are not doctor or physical therapists but I would just assume that something so serious as this could be identified pretty easily by anyone. But maybe not. Lets talk tomorrow so you can fill me in on all the details.
Just know that WE WILL ALL GET THROUGH THIS. ❤
Hang in there! I'm sure you are doing the right thing for Lucas.
Oh honey, I can only imagine how difficult this is for you but I know you and Todd will make the right decision. Lucas is a very happy, active boy and you and Todd are great parents. If you decide to go with the Doc Band, know that the four months will go by quickly and Lucas will be fine!
Oh Tonya, I am sorry you are so upset by this, but I think you have the right attitude in that Lucas won't even remember it and if it helps his health in the long run, then you are making the right decision. And for those people who ask questions, just ignore them, people can be way too nosey sometimes!