This educational session, presented by Michelle De Robillard, explores the risk factors, prevention, and early management of deformational plagiocephaly and highlights the broader role of paediatric physiotherapy in supporting infant and child development. Participants will gain practical guidance on how general practitioners can identify at-risk infants, provide early preventive advice to families, and understand when referral to physiotherapy is appropriate.
The session will also discuss the benefits of early intervention across paediatric populations and how early physiotherapy involvement can enhance developmental outcomes, reduce long-term complications, and improve access to support services such as the NDIS. Drawing from her background as an Early Childhood Practitioner with Wanslea, Michelle offers practical insights for integrating early childhood knowledge into clinical care and parent education.
A handout summary of the latest research on deformational plagiocephaly will be provided for use in patient consultations and parent discussions.
By completing this activity, participants will be able to:
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Identify the key risk factors for deformational plagiocephaly and provide evidence-based advice to parents and caregivers to reduce risk.
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Recognise the signs and symptoms requiring early referral to paediatric physiotherapy for optimal outcomes.
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Understand how paediatric physiotherapy benefits infants, toddlers, and children beyond plagiocephaly, including support for developmental delays and movement disorders.
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Explain the importance of early identification and intervention in paediatric care and how these strategies improve access and outcomes through systems such as the NDIS.
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Collaborate effectively with paediatric physiotherapists and early intervention teams to support holistic family-centred care.
be given 8 clinical signficant areas of advice to give parents and/or practice managers, to prevent the development of deformational plagiocephaly.
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