Flat head syndrome (Plagiocephaly)

Positional Plagiocephaly is a change to the head shape after birth. Primary Plagiocephaly, however, can develop in the womb.

Plagio means misshapen. There are different types of misshapen heads for different reasons.

Babies heads are made up of many bones that are not fused, the bones are soft to help the baby’s head to pass through the birth canal.

If the baby has a preference to keeping their head to one side, then the side of the head is vulnerable to becoming flattened.  Premature babies are often more vulnerable to this problem as well as twins and multiple births.

Spotting Plagiocephaly:

Plagio appears as some flattening at the back of one side of the head. Also, the ears may sometimes not seem aligned.

Osteopathic treatment begins when the child’s skull is still soft. Cranial Osteopathy can help to identify why your baby is developing Plagiocephaly.  Your Osteopath can offer treatment to restore good balance and mobility and advice on how to reduce further flattening and how to manage with a conservative approach.