Flat Spots (Plagiocephaly)

Noticing a flat spot on your baby’s head can be worrying, especially when you’re doing everything right. It’s become much more common since babies started sleeping on their backs, which is still the safest way for them to sleep. At Serene Chiropractic in Worcester, MA, we look at what may be causing your baby to rest on the same spot and help support more balanced movement.

What’s going on?

Positional plagiocephaly is a flattening on the back or side of a baby’s head. A baby’s skull is soft in the first months, so resting in the same position often can shape it. It’s very often linked to a head-turning preference or torticollis. Most cases are mild and improve with positioning changes and time, especially when they’re addressed early.

Common contributors

Head preference

Babies who prefer turning one way tend to rest on the same spot, which can flatten that area.

Tight neck muscles

Tension on one side of the neck can make it hard for a baby to turn the other way.

Time on the back

Car seats, swings, and bouncers add up. Tummy time while awake helps take pressure off the back of the head.

How can we help?

We assess how your baby turns their head and moves their neck and body, since easing a head preference is key to taking pressure off the flat spot. Care uses gentle, low-force techniques, along with practical tips for tummy time, holding, and positioning. We’ll also let you know if your baby should be evaluated for a helmet or by a specialist.

When to see a doctor first

Check with your pediatrician if you notice:

-A head shape that is getting worse instead of better
-A ridge along the skull, or a soft spot that looks sunken or bulging
-Delays in movement or developmental milestones
-A flat spot along with a strong head tilt that isn’t improving

Your pediatrician can rule out craniosynostosis, a less common condition where the skull bones join too early.

Small changes early can make a big difference

Gentle chiropractic care may be a helpful part of your baby’s support. Learn more about how we care for kids.

Explore pediatric chiropractic

Still have questions?

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