Plagiocephaly, commonly referred to as “flat head syndrome,” has become an increasingly prevalent concern among parents of newborns and infants. Characterized by a flat spot on the back or side of a baby’s head, this condition often raises questions about causes, long-term effects, and treatment options. Fortunately, with early intervention and a holistic approach, including pediatric chiropractic care, many infants can see significant improvement.
What Is Plagiocephaly?
Plagiocephaly refers to an asymmetrical distortion (flattening) of an infant’s skull. It typically appears during the first few months of life when a baby’s skull is still soft and malleable. There are two primary types:
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Positional (Deformational) Plagiocephaly: Caused by external pressures on the head, often due to prolonged positioning.
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Craniosynostosis: A more serious, rare condition caused by the premature fusion of skull sutures, requiring surgical intervention.
This article focuses on positional plagiocephaly, which is far more common and often responsive to conservative treatments.
Causes of Plagiocephaly
Several factors can contribute to the development of positional plagiocephaly:
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Prolonged Supine Sleeping: While back-sleeping is recommended to reduce the risk of SIDS, extended time lying on the back can lead to flattening.
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Limited Tummy Time: Lack of supervised time spent on the stomach can hinder neck and upper body development, increasing the likelihood of skull flattening.
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Torticollis: A condition where a baby’s neck muscles are tight or imbalanced, causing a head tilt or preference to turn one way, leading to uneven pressure on the skull.
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Birth Trauma or Positioning: Difficult labor, forceps/vacuum delivery, or in-utero positioning (such as breech presentation) can create muscular tension or misalignment.
Symptoms of Plagiocephaly
While the most noticeable sign is a flat spot on the back or side of the baby’s head, other symptoms can include:
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Uneven or asymmetrical head shape
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Misalignment of ears or facial features
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A head that consistently turns to one side
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Difficulty turning the head equally in both directions
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Preference for looking one way during sleep or feeding
The Role of Pediatric Chiropractic Care in Treatment
Pediatric chiropractic care offers a gentle, non-invasive, and effective option for addressing the musculoskeletal imbalances often associated with plagiocephaly.
How Chiropractic Care Helps:
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Addressing Underlying Misalignments
Chiropractic adjustments can gently correct misalignments in the spine and neck, especially the upper cervical spine, which may contribute to torticollis or limited neck mobility. -
Improving Range of Motion
By restoring normal joint function, chiropractic care helps babies move their head more freely, reducing constant pressure on one part of the skull. -
Supporting Muscle Balance
Gentle muscle work and adjustments can relieve tension in tight or overstimulated muscles, particularly those contributing to a head-turning preference. -
Enhancing Nervous System Function
A well-functioning nervous system supports motor development and coordination, helping infants reach milestones such as rolling and sitting—key to reducing plagiocephaly risk.
Complementary Home Strategies
In addition to chiropractic care, several at-home techniques can aid in reshaping your baby’s head and supporting their development:
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Tummy Time: Daily supervised tummy time builds neck and shoulder strength while reducing time spent on the back.
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Repositioning Techniques: Encourage your baby to look both ways by alternating head positions during sleep and feeding from different sides.
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Use of Baby Carriers: Limit time in car seats and swings; instead, opt for babywearing, which keeps pressure off the back of the head.
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Physical Therapy: In cases of severe torticollis or motor delays, physical therapy may be recommended alongside chiropractic care.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you notice persistent flatness or asymmetry in your baby's head shape, or if your infant favors turning their head only one way, consult with your pediatrician. A referral to a pediatric chiropractor or physical therapist may follow. Early intervention is key—treatment is most effective within the first year when the skull is still highly moldable.
In more severe cases, or when conservative methods don’t result in improvement, a cranial helmet (orthotic therapy) may be recommended. This is usually reserved for moderate to severe cases and is often used in conjunction with chiropractic or physical therapy.
Final Thoughts
Plagiocephaly in infants can be concerning for parents, but it’s highly treatable when addressed early. Pediatric chiropractic care offers a natural, safe, and effective solution that not only helps improve head shape but also supports overall musculoskeletal and neurological development. When combined with simple at-home practices, chiropractic care can be a cornerstone in helping your baby grow with symmetry, strength, and optimal wellness.
Always consult with a qualified pediatric healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your child’s individual needs. With the right support, your baby’s head—and health—can get back on track.
