What’s a Tortle, you might ask?
In short, Tortle is a lightweight knit beanie that helps prevent and treat Flathead Syndrome in babies…and they’re now available on Target.com!
Now, the longer version. Because you want to know more, right?
Developed by Dr. Jane Scott, a Board Certified Pediatrician and Neonatologist, the Tortle beanie is an FDA-cleared patented Class 1 medical device that promotes proper head and neck movement which is essential for appropriate development. Tortle helps prevent and treat early stages of flat head syndrome: plagiocephaly (the flattening of the baby’s skull) & torticollis (unbalanced neck muscles). Tortle works by gently deflecting a baby’s head from side to side when they are sitting or lying on the back of their head. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends regular head repositioning of babies younger than six months.
Who’s at risk?
“Every baby is at risk of developing Flat Head Syndrome with one out of two babies being diagnosed with the Syndrome,” said Dr. Jane Scott. “Through Target.com we will have an opportunity to further increase awareness of Flat Head Syndrome and the ease in which it can be prevented or treated.”
The incidence of Plagiocephaly and Torticollis (or Flathead syndrome) has increased to epidemic proportions since 1992 with more than a million babies being diagnosed with the condition each year in the U.S. alone. This is due to their lack of movement and the amount of time infants spend on their back (the safest place for them to be). If left untreated, there can be long-standing problems. Treatment is frequently expensive and can be somewhat uncomfortable for a baby. Plagiocephaly and Torticollis are almost 100% preventable with repositioning and Tortle makes this safe and easy. It is recommended that all newborns wear a Tortle for the first 6 months of life to support healthy development.
Dr. Scott, whose specialty is Pediatrics and Neonatology, is recognized as an expert in the areas of Plagiocephaly and Torticollis. In her nearly 30 years as a practicing physician, Dr. Scott has counseled and educated hundreds of parents to help prevent as well as treat the many problems associated with Flathead Syndrome. Dr. Jane’s mission is to prevent Flathead Syndrome-an epidemic affecting the babies across the world.
Please visit tortle.com for more information, or connect with them on Facebook.
Buy it!
Target.com will carry three Tortle designs; Blue Elephant, Pink Flowers and Solid White. The Tortle beanies are available in medium and large sizes at a suggested retail price of $19.99.
I had never heard of this product before. Seems like a good idea if you leave your baby laying down a lot. My way to avoid this problem is simple and old-fashioned: baby-wearing!
I couldn’t agree more!