What Is Flat Head Syndrome?

Flat head syndrome, clinically known as positional plagiocephaly, is a common condition where a baby develops a flat spot on the back or side of their head. While it might look concerning, rest assured, it’s typically harmless and doesn’t impact brain development.

At More Than Able Therapy on the Sunshine Coast, our experienced paediatric physiotherapists are here to support families with assessment, gentle treatment, and practical strategies to improve your baby’s head shape and development.

What Causes Flat Head Syndrome?

Flat head syndrome often occurs when babies spend long periods lying in one position. Because infant skulls are soft and malleable, consistent pressure on one area can cause the shape to flatten.

Common contributing factors include:

– Sleeping position: Lying on their back for extended periods.
– Torticollis: Tight neck muscles that limit a baby’s ability to turn their head.
– Prematurity: Premature babies are more vulnerable due to softer skull bones.
– Multiple births: Less room to move in the womb can affect head positioning.

Can It Be Prevented? Tips for Parents

While not every case is preventable, you can reduce the risk with simple daily strategies:

Tummy Time

Encourage regular supervised tummy time when your baby is awake to help build neck and shoulder strength and relieve pressure from the back of the head.

Alternate Positions

Change the direction your baby lies in the cot each night and alternate arms during feeding and carrying to encourage symmetrical head movement.

Reduce Time in Baby Gear
Limit extended time in car seats, bouncers, and swings that restrict head movement.

When to See a Paediatric Physiotherapist

If you notice a flat spot developing or your baby has trouble turning their head, our physiotherapists can help. At More Than Able Therapy, we offer personalised care for babies with flat head syndrome, including:

– Gentle repositioning strategies
– Neck stretching exercises for torticollis
– Tummy time guidance tailored to your baby
– Referral for helmet therapy in more severe cases (if appropriate)

We take a holistic, family-centred approach, ensuring you feel confident and supported throughout the process.

Is Helmet Therapy Necessary?

In most cases, early intervention with repositioning and physical therapy is sufficient. However, in moderate to severe cases where natural correction isn’t progressing, your baby may benefit from helmet therapy.

Helmet therapy uses a custom-moulded cranial helmet to guide your baby’s skull into a more symmetrical shape as they grow. It’s safe, non-invasive, and most effective between 4 and 12 months of age.

Supporting Your Baby at Home

Parents play a crucial role in their child’s development. Our team will give you the tools, exercises, and confidence to support your baby at home. This may include:

– Daily head-turning activities
– Strength-building tummy time routines
– Play-based stretches and mobility exercises

You’re Not Alone, We’re Here to Help

At More Than Able Therapy, we know how overwhelming new parenthood can be. If you’re concerned about your baby’s head shape or development, our friendly team of paediatric physiotherapists is ready to guide you with compassion and care.

We offer face-to-face physiotherapy services at our Maroochydore clinic and outreach appointments across the Sunshine Coast and regional Queensland.

Book a Physiotherapy Appointment

Getting started is easy – no referral is needed. Simply fill out our intake form or call us on (07) 5228 0469 and we’ll guide you through the next steps.