Flat head syndrome: calls for more research into the condition
Southmead Hospital runs the only NHS clinic offering helmet therapy
Specialists in Bristol are calling for more research into flat head syndrome - which affects up to 40-percent of babies.
Southmead Hospital runs the only NHS clinic offering helmet therapy for infants with the most severe forms of the condition.
The syndrome is caused when infants develop a flat head from lying in the safest position - on their backs.
Luckily, most babies recover from this over time.
Paediatrician Doctor Joanna Garstang says this sleeping position is the best for preventing cot death.
She added: "Even if parents are worried about flat head syndrome, putting the baby on the back to sleep is by far the safest thing for you to do.
"If you're worried, talk to your GP or health visitor.
"Despite there being a lack of provision, for most children, it's purely cosmetic - and they do outgrow it."
Becky Darby's baby Leo was referred to Southmead Hospital in Bristol - and said: "Straight away, we noticed progress with Leo - after his head was getting flatter at around the age of four months old.
"The helmet therapy protected his head when he was lying down.
"We were taking weekly photos, and we could see a difference straight away, following our two referrals to Southmead Hospital - and I think it helped, for me, that the team were really nice to us."
You can find out more about flat head syndrome on the NHS website.