🧸 Helping Your Child with Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome)

Plagiocephaly, often called “flat head syndrome,” happens when a baby develops a flat spot on one side or the back of their head. This is fairly common in infants, especially since babies spend a lot of time lying on their backs. The good news? With early attention and a few simple strategies, you can help your child’s head shape and movement improve.

Tummy time helps strengthen neck and trunk muscles.

What to Watch For

• A flat spot on one side of the head

• Baby favoring looking one direction over the other

• Difficulty turning their head equally both ways

• Head tilting to one side (this could indicate torticollis)

Tips for Parents at Home

Here are a few things you can do each day to support your baby’s head shape and movement:

• Encourage tummy time – Start with short, frequent sessions while your baby is awake and supervised. This helps strengthen neck and trunk muscles.

• Change positions – Alternate the direction your baby lays in the crib or place toys on different sides to encourage turning their head both ways.

• Limit time in carriers/swings – Give your baby opportunities to move and explore outside of car seats and swings.

• Hold your baby upright – Carrying your baby helps take pressure off the back of the head and strengthens muscles.

When to Seek Help

If you notice your baby has trouble:

• Turning their head both directions,

• Prefers looking to only one side, or

• Has a persistent head tilt,

It may be a sign of torticollis (tightness in the neck muscles). In this case, a pediatric physical therapist can help with gentle stretches, strengthening exercises, and positioning strategies.

At T & K Pediatric Services, we provide FREE screenings if you have concerns. Early support can make a world of difference, and we are here to help guide you and your child every step of the way.

The Bottom Line

Most cases of plagiocephaly improve with early intervention and consistent repositioning at home. If you have concerns, talk with your pediatrician — and remember you can schedule a free screening with our PT team for peace of mind.

Because at T & K, we believe: Every milestone matters, and small changes now can make a big difference later.