Plagiocephaly 101: What Every Mama Needs to Know About Flat Head Syndrome

Have you noticed a flat spot on your baby’s head? Or maybe they always look to the same side? You're not imagining it—and you're definitely not alone. Many parents notice these subtle signs in their little ones during the first few months. It’s called plagiocephaly, or more commonly, flat head syndrome.

The good news? There’s so much you can do to help! Let’s break it down and walk through what causes it, why it matters, and how to support your baby’s growing head and body.

What Is Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome)?

Plagiocephaly is the term for a flat area developing on a baby’s head—usually on one side or the back. Because babies’ skulls are soft and moldable (thanks, biology!), consistent pressure on one spot can slowly shape the head.

This can happen simply from sleeping in one position too much, or it may be related to muscle tightness or birth factors. Either way, it’s more common than you’d think—and very treatable when addressed early.

What Causes Plagiocephaly?

There’s rarely one single cause, but here are the most common contributors to flat head syndrome in babies:

💡 1. In-Utero Positioning & Birth Factors

Sometimes, baby’s position in the womb—especially in tight spaces like with twins or breech presentation—can create early head shape imbalances. Long labours, C-sections, or use of forceps or vacuum during birth can also play a role, creating tension patterns in the skull and neck.

💡 2. Neck Tension and Favouring one side 

If baby has tension in the cervical spinal muslces and joints, it will pull their head to one side, which is known as torticollis. Over time, that constant turning or tilting to one side leads to more pressure (and flattening) in that direction.

💡 3. Too Much Time in Baby Equipment

Car seats, swings, bouncers, and swaddles are common but can be a negative tool —as they can also keep babies in the same position for too long. This limits their ability to move and shifts pressure onto the back or one side of their head.

Key takeaway: Babies need time off their backs! That means more tummy time, floor play, and babywearing whenever possible.

Why Head Shape Matters (It’s More Than Just Looks)

Sure, a flat spot might seem like a cosmetic issue—but it’s often a sign of deeper imbalances that can affect more than just the head. Here’s why early attention matters:

🔹 Oral Function: Flat spots can affect the jaw and mouth muscles, which may impact latching, sucking, swallowing, and even speech later on. Tongue ties are also more commonly seen in babies with plagiocephaly.

🔹 Spinal Alignment: Tightness in the neck often travels down the spine, affecting body symmetry, posture, and even hip positioning.

🔹 Digestion & Comfort: Tension patterns can show up as gas, colic, or reflux—things every parent loves dealing with at 2 a.m. 🙃

How to Help Your Baby’s Head Shape (Without the Panic)

The earlier you start, the easier it is to support balanced development. Here are ways you can help at home (and with the right professionals):

⭐️ 1. Bodywork & Professional Support

Look for practitioners who specialize in pediatrics—like a chiropractor (hi 👋), osteopath, craniosacral therapist, or physiotherapist. These modalities gently release muscle tension, improve mobility, and restore balance in the body.

⭐️ 2. Home Exercises & Gentle Movement

Gentle neck stretches and tummy time can help release tension patterns.  Encourage sleeping, feeding, and playing with head turning to both sides.

⭐️ 3. Positional Tweaks That Make a Big Difference

• Rotate baby’s sleeping direction in the crib

• Increase tummy time and side lying time, and reduce time on back 

• Use supervised positioning aids if baby always turns one way

• Babywear during the day instead of extended time in swings or seats

⭐️ 4. When to Consider Helmet Therapy

If plagiocephaly is moderate to severe and not improving with repositioning and bodywork, helmet therapy can be a very effective option. Helmets are custom-fitted, lightweight, and modified as baby’s head grows. They're managed by a trained orthotist, and while they're usually a “last resort,” they often work beautifully.

Final Thoughts for Concerned Mamas

Worried about your baby’s head shape? You’re not overreacting—and you’re not alone. The earlier you take action, the easier it is to guide healthy, symmetrical growth. Most cases respond really well to simple, consistent strategies.

So if you’ve spotted a flat spot or a preference to one side, trust your instincts and get support early. Your baby’s development is a journey—and you’re doing an amazing job navigating it. ❤️