Plagiocephaly: Your Baby’s Flat Head Syndrome Explained

It’s 2 AM, and you’re gently stroking your baby’s head during a feeding when you notice it – one side feels flatter than the other. Your heart skips a beat as worry floods in. Is this normal? Will it affect your baby’s development? You’re not alone in this concern, and what you’re noticing might be plagiocephaly, commonly called flat head syndrome.

You’re being an attentive parent, and catching this early gives you the best opportunity to help your baby.

Proudly serving families in Cooper City, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Weston, and throughout Broward County, FL.

What Is Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome)?

Plagiocephaly is a condition where your baby’s head develops a flat spot, usually on the back or one side. The word literally means “oblique head” in Greek, but don’t let the technical term scare you.

Types of Flat Head Syndrome

• Positional plagiocephaly: The most common type, caused by external pressure
• Congenital plagiocephaly: Less common, caused by premature skull fusion
• Brachycephaly: Flattening across the entire back of the head
• Scaphocephaly: Long, narrow head shape

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What Causes Flat Head Syndrome in Babies?

Understanding the root causes helps you address the issue more effectively. Most cases aren’t anyone’s fault – they’re often the result of multiple factors coming together.

Before Birth

Sometimes the journey begins in the womb. Twins or multiples may experience crowding, leading to pressure on developing skulls. Breech positioning or low amniotic fluid can also contribute to head shape changes.

Birth trauma from a difficult delivery, forceps, or vacuum extraction can affect your baby’s neck and skull alignment from day one.

After Birth: The “Back to Sleep” Factor

The “Back to Sleep” campaign dramatically reduced SIDS rates according to the American Academy of Pediatrics – and that’s incredibly important. However, it also increased cases of positional plagiocephaly because babies spend more time on their backs.

This doesn’t mean you should stop placing your baby on their back to sleep. Instead, it means being intentional about positioning during awake times.

The Torticollis Connection

Torticollis, or “twisted neck,” often goes hand-in-hand with plagiocephaly. When your baby consistently turns their head to one side due to tight neck muscles, it creates uneven pressure on the skull.

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Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Early detection gives you the best chance for improvement. Here’s what to look for during those precious bonding moments:

Visual Signs

• Flat spot on the back or side of the head
• Uneven ear alignment
• Forehead prominence on one side
• Hair wearing away in certain areas

Behavioral Signs

• Consistent head turning to one side
• Difficulty breastfeeding on one side
• Fussiness during tummy time
• Delayed motor milestones

Trust your instincts. You know your baby better than anyone, and if something seems off, it’s worth investigating.

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Natural Treatment Options for Baby Flat Head

Repositioning Techniques

Simple changes in daily positioning can make a significant difference:

• Tummy time: Start with short sessions several times daily
• Side-lying play: Alternate sides during awake periods
• Carrying positions: Vary how you hold your baby
• Sleep positioning: Alternate head direction (always on back for sleep safety)

Pediatric Chiropractic Care

Gentle chiropractic care focuses on the nervous system and addresses underlying tension that might be contributing to your baby’s positioning preferences.

Many families in Pembroke Pines and surrounding areas find that addressing nervous system function, as research from the Cleveland Clinic shows can be vital for development, helps their babies move more freely and comfortably in all directions.

The techniques we use are incredibly gentle – often just light fingertip pressure, similar to what you’d use to check a tomato’s ripeness at the grocery store.

When Helmets Might Be Recommended

For severe cases or when conservative approaches aren’t providing enough improvement, cranial molding helmets might be suggested. These are typically recommended between 4-12 months of age.

However, many families find success with natural approaches when started early enough.

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Prevention Strategies for New Parents

While you can’t prevent all cases of plagiocephaly, there are proactive steps you can take from day one.

Daily Positioning Routine

1. Start tummy time early (even in the hospital)
2. Limit time in car seats, bouncy seats, and swings
3. Encourage active play and movement
4. Alternate feeding positions

Creating an Optimal Environment

Position interesting objects and mobiles to encourage your baby to turn their head in different directions. Change your baby’s orientation in the crib periodically so they look different directions toward the room.

Remember, your baby naturally wants to look at you, so vary where you approach from during diaper changes and play time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will my baby’s flat head fix itself?

Mild cases often improve naturally as babies become more mobile and spend less time lying down. However, moderate to severe cases typically benefit from intervention. The earlier you address it, the better the potential for improvement.

How long does it take to see improvement?

Many families begin noticing changes within 2-4 weeks of consistent repositioning and care. Significant improvement often takes 2-4 months, depending on your baby’s age and the severity of the condition.

Is chiropractic care safe for babies?

When performed by trained pediatric chiropractors, infant chiropractic care is very gentle and safe. The techniques used are much different from adult adjustments – typically involving light touches and gentle movements.

Can plagiocephaly affect my child’s development?

While cosmetic concerns are common, severe untreated cases might lead to developmental delays due to restricted movement patterns. Early intervention helps ensure your child reaches their developmental milestones on schedule.

What’s the difference between plagiocephaly and torticollis?

Plagiocephaly is the flat head shape, while torticollis is the neck muscle tightness that often contributes to it. They frequently occur together, and addressing both simultaneously often leads to better outcomes.

Does insurance cover neurologically-focused chiropractic care?

Because we are neurologically-focused rather than a typical back-pain chiropractor, most major medical insurance plans do not cover what we do. Our approach is more specialized and more intensive than what insurance was designed for. However, we accept HSA and FSA — which many families have and don’t realize they can use for this. We also offer family discounts and flexible options to make care affordable. We always find a way for families who are committed to their child’s health.

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Taking Action for Your Baby’s Health

Discovering your baby has plagiocephaly can feel overwhelming, but remember – you’re not alone in this journey. Early detection and intervention give you the best opportunity to help your little one thrive.

Every baby develops at their own pace, and with proper support, most children with flat head syndrome go on to reach all their developmental milestones beautifully.

At Alive & Free Chiropractic, we understand the concerns that keep parents awake at night. Our gentle, neurologically-focused approach helps support your baby’s natural development while giving you the peace of mind you deserve.

Don’t wait and hope it will resolve on its own. The sooner you take action, the more options you have. Call us at (754) 203-5907 or schedule your consultation online today. Your baby’s healthy development is worth that call.

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