Chiropractic management of non-synostotic deformational plagiocephaly in the Netherlands: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Non-synostotic deformational plagiocephaly (NDP) is a common condition affecting 48% of infants. It is frequently cited as a reason for presentation to a chiropractor, however little is currently known about chiropractic management of NDP. This cross-sectional study aims to begin to address this literature gap. Objectives: 1) To determine the characteristics of chiropractic management of non-synostotic deformational plagiocephaly (NDP) in the Netherlands and; 2) To investigate the type and number of treatments chiropractors expected for full resolution of the head turning preference. Methods: Cross-sectional survey of registered chiropractors in the Netherlands. Results: Seventy-eight chiropractors completed the survey, of which 86% (N=67) treated pediatric patients, and of which 73% (N=38) treated infants with NDP. The most common presentation was head turning preference (with or without NDP) (75%, N=39) for 0-11-month-olds and the most common treatment technique was ‘touch and hold’ (65%, N=33). Participating chiropractors reported ‘no side effects’ (39%, n=20) more commonly than any specific side effects. On average, participating chiropractors expected 4 treatments for full resolution of the head turning preference. Conclusion: Chiropractors in the Netherlands who treat children frequently manage cases of NDP. In line with current evidence, participating chiropractors often attributed NDP to a head turning preference. There is currently limited clinical evidence on the effectiveness of management techniques for head turning preference and NDP, this should be the focus of future research.