As parents, we want to give our babies the best start in life, and their development is a top priority. When you notice a flat spot on your baby’s head, it can raise concerns about their growth and appearance. This condition, known as plagiocephaly, has become more common in recent years, but there’s good news—there are safe, natural ways to address it.
At Pinnacle Chiropractic, we specialize in nervous system-based pediatric chiropractic care, which can play a significant role in correcting plagiocephaly by addressing its root causes. In this article, we’ll explore why flat head syndrome occurs, how infant chiropractic care can help, and what parents can do at home to support their baby’s development.
What Is Flat Head Syndrome?
Flat head syndrome, or positional plagiocephaly, is a condition where a flat spot develops on one side of a baby’s head. This happens because a baby’s skull is soft and malleable during the early months of life to allow for brain growth. Prolonged pressure in one area, often from lying in the same position, can lead to asymmetry.
Types of Plagiocephaly
- Positional Plagiocephaly: Flattening on one side of the head due to positioning.
- Brachycephaly: Flattening at the back of the head, leading to a broader, shorter skull.
- Scaphocephaly: A long, narrow head shape caused by limited side-to-side positioning.
What Causes Flat Head Syndrome?
Several factors contribute to the development of flat head syndrome:
1. Sleeping Position
The "Back to Sleep" campaign, which promotes putting babies to sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of SIDS, has been highly effective but has also increased cases of plagiocephaly.
2. Torticollis
Torticollis, or tightness in the neck muscles, can make it difficult for babies to turn their heads, causing them to favor one side.
3. Limited Tummy Time
Babies who spend extended time lying on their backs, in car seats, or in swings may develop flat spots due to a lack of varied positioning.
4. Birth Trauma
The birthing process can put pressure on the baby’s head and neck, potentially causing misalignments that contribute to plagiocephaly.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help Fix a Flat Head
At Pinnacle Chiropractic, we approach flat head syndrome by addressing its underlying causes, particularly spinal and cranial misalignments that affect head positioning and movement. Chiropractic care can help:
1. Improve Neck Mobility
Gentle chiropractic adjustments target misalignments in the spine and neck, helping to relieve tension and improve your baby’s ability to turn their head freely. This is especially helpful if torticollis is present.
2. Balance Cranial Alignment
Babies with plagiocephaly often have subtle misalignments in their cranial bones. Chiropractic care helps ensure the head and spine are properly aligned, allowing for even pressure distribution across the skull.
3. Support Nervous System Function
Chiropractic adjustments optimize nervous system function, which plays a vital role in muscle tone, coordination, and overall development.
4. Prevent Long-Term Issues
By addressing plagiocephaly early, chiropractic care can support proper head shape development and prevent potential delays in gross motor skills or other developmental milestones.
What to Expect During a Chiropractic Visit
Pediatric chiropractic care is safe, gentle, and tailored specifically to the needs of infants. Adjustments involve light pressure—similar to the touch you’d use to check the ripeness of a tomato. At Pinnacle Chiropractic, we take a holistic approach, assessing your baby’s spinal alignment, head shape, and muscle function to create a personalized care plan.
Additional Strategies to Correct Flat Head Syndrome at Home
In addition to chiropractic care, there are several things parents can do at home to help correct and prevent flat head syndrome:
1. Incorporate Tummy Time
Tummy time helps strengthen your baby’s neck, shoulders, and upper body while relieving pressure on the back of their head. Start with a few minutes at a time and gradually increase as your baby becomes more comfortable.
2. Repositioning
Encourage your baby to turn their head to the less favored side during sleep and play. You can:
- Place toys or mobiles on the side you want them to look toward.
- Alternate the direction they face in their crib each night.
3. Babywearing
Using a baby carrier keeps your baby upright, reducing time spent lying on their back. It also promotes bonding and supports spinal alignment.
4. Adjust Feeding Positions
Alternate the side you use while feeding to encourage even head movement and muscle development.
5. Cranial Shaping Helmets
In more severe cases, a cranial shaping helmet may be recommended by your pediatrician. Chiropractic care can complement helmet therapy by ensuring proper alignment and mobility.
Success Stories from Pinnacle Chiropractic
One of our young patients, baby Mia, came to us with significant plagiocephaly at just four months old. Her parents were concerned about the visible flatness on the right side of her head and wanted a natural solution. After a series of gentle adjustments and guidance on tummy time and repositioning, Mia’s head shape improved dramatically over the following months. Her parents were thrilled to see her symmetry restored and her development thriving.
Why Choose Pinnacle Chiropractic?
At Pinnacle Chiropractic, we specialize in nervous system-based pediatric care, providing a safe and supportive environment for your baby. Our team is certified in the Webster Technique and trained in pediatric chiropractic through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) and PXdocs. We are dedicated to addressing the root causes of health concerns, ensuring your baby has the best foundation for growth and development.
Final Thoughts
Flat head syndrome can be a concern for parents, but with early intervention and a natural approach, it is often correctable. Chiropractic care offers a safe and effective way to address plagiocephaly by improving alignment, mobility, and overall nervous system function. Combined with simple strategies at home, your baby’s head shape and development can be beautifully supported.
If your baby has a flat spot on their head or you’re concerned about their head shape, contact Pinnacle Chiropractic today. Together, we can create a personalized plan to help your baby thrive.
